Interactions between seabirds and fisheries have been documented since ancient times, with seabirds often attracted to fishing boats for trawl discards. Additionally, these birds can provide valuable information to fishers regarding fish aggregations, including species such as anchovies, mackerels, sardines, and tunas.
The east coast of India, renowned as a haven for migratory birds, was recently the site of notable seabird activity. During a fishery resources survey conducted by the vessel MFV MatsyaDarshini of the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) in Andhra Pradesh waters in June 2024, large numbers of Flesh-footed Shearwaters (Ardenna carneipes) were observed. This species, belonging to the family Procellariidae, is known for its large, broad wings and dark blackish-brown plumage, with paler and greyer underwings and flight feathers. The bird’s robust bill is pale pink with a blackish tip, while its legs and feet are flesh-pink.
Dr. P. Kumar, Young Professional at the PMMSY Project, Chennai base of FSI, reported that the Flesh-footed Shearwater breeds on islands in Australia and New Zealand and is a well-known migratory bird. Its distribution spans the southern Indian and southwestern Pacific Oceans during the breeding season, with migratory paths extending to South Africa, the Arabian Sea, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the broader Pacific Ocean. The recent sightings in the Bay of Bengal suggest a noteworthy extension of this migration pattern.
These observations underscore the intricate relationship between seabirds and marine ecosystems, offering insights into migration trends and the potential impacts of fishing activities on bird populations. The ongoing survey by MFV MatsyaDarshini aims to continue monitoring these interactions to support sustainable fisheries management and conservation efforts.
Source: Fishery Survey of India
