1 research outputs found
GPS tracking for mapping seabird mortality induced by light pollution
Light pollution and its consequences on ecosystems are increasing worldwide. Knowledge on the
threshold levels of light pollution at which significant ecological impacts emerge and the size of dark
refuges to maintain natural nocturnal processes is crucial to mitigate its negative consequences.
Seabird fledglings are attracted by artificial lights when they leave their nest at night, causing high
mortality. We used GPS data-loggers to track the flights of Cory’s shearwater Calonectris diomedea
fledglings from nest-burrows to ground, and to evaluate the light pollution levels of overflown areas
on Tenerife, Canary Islands, using nocturnal, high-resolution satellite imagery. Birds were grounded
at locations closer than 16 km from colonies in their maiden flights, and 50% were rescued within a
3 km radius from the nest-site. Most birds left the nests in the first three hours after sunset. Rescue
locations showed radiance values greater than colonies, and flight distance was positively related
to light pollution levels. Breeding habitat alteration by light pollution was more severe for inland
colonies. We provide scientific-based information to manage dark refuges facilitating that fledglings
from inland colonies reach the sea successfully. We also offer methodological approaches useful for
other critically threatened petrel species grounded by light pollutionPeer reviewe