The Shetland Beached Bird Survey, 1979–1986

Abstract

The results of 7 years of monthly Beached Bird Surveys in Shetland (March 1979 to February 1986) are described and discussed. The occurrence of corpses of the more frequently found species showed highly seasonal patterns which changed little over the period. Densities of Guillemot corpses increased greatly, mainly due to wrecks of unoiled birds during winter. The occurrence of oiled corpses showed a marked seasonal pattern, being highest during winter and lowest in late summer. The incidence of oiling was highest in 1979180 and remained at a lower, fluctuating level in subsequent years. Few oiled corpses were found in the vicinity of the Sullom Voe Terminal since early 1979. Most oil pollution was considered to have originated from offshore sources, particularly to the east of Shetland.