Monitoring Endangered Shearwater Birds 24/7
A group of researchers from various Turkish universities and scientific foundations have initiated a joint study to examine Shearwaters in the Mediterranean Basin and the Black Sea. Led by Boğaziçi University Institute of Environmental Sciences and supported by TÜBİTAK, the team includes academics from Ege University, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul University, Mediterranean Science Foundation, and Turkish Marine Researchers Foundation.
The study, conducted under the “Protection” project, utilizes state-of-the-art genomic, acoustic, and GPS-GSM tracking methods. In February, the research team sailed to the Bosphorus and set up a 50-meter transparent net between two boats to capture the Shearwaters. The captured birds were carefully handled, and blood samples were taken for analysis. Subsequently, satellite transmitters the size of a matchbox were attached to the birds’ backs to monitor their movements in real-time through a computer system.
The team aims to understand the migration routes of the Shearwaters and determine if there are breeding colonies in Turkey. Prof. Dr. Raşit Bilgin from Boğaziçi University highlighted the importance of protecting these birds, as they are endangered species facing extinction.
After unsuccessful attempts in the first two years, the team successfully caught 30 Shearwaters in the third year by modifying their capture method. By tracking the birds’ movements, the researchers hope to identify breeding colonies, feeding behaviors, and migration patterns to enhance conservation efforts.
The data collected so far indicates that the Shearwaters frequent the Western Black Sea coast and Sevastopol in Ukraine for feeding. The researchers continue to collect blood samples and monitor the birds to understand their gender and kinship relationships.
Ultimately, the findings of this study will be shared with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to develop strategies for the protection of Shearwaters in Turkey. The researchers are committed to safeguarding these magnificent birds and preserving their habitats for future generations.
