Rachel Bigsby, a wildlife photographer known for her work with seabirds and their conservation, has collaborated with The Natural History Museum and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) to release a compelling short film exploring the devastating impact of avian influenza on the UK’s seabird populations.
The film, which highlights vulnerable species like the Northern Gannet, delves into the tragedy of the 2022 outbreak and its repercussions for British seabirds, presenting a critical call to action and invites viewers to witness the gravity of the crisis facing seabirds.
"Documenting the devastation of Avian Influenza firsthand for National Geographic was one of the most heart-wrenching experiences of my career. Looking down my lens at the unimaginable suffering and loss within our Northern Gannet colonies was profoundly difficult. Having photographed Gannets for many years, I feel deeply connected to them — their grace, resilience, and vulnerability. In many ways, I feel protective of these formidable birds. To now have the support of both The Natural History Museum and the RSPB in creating a film that raises awareness and shares their story is nothing short of an honour and a privilege. When I won the 'Natural Artistry' category in Wildlife Photographer of the Year with my image of two Gannets, I said in my acceptance speech that I hoped the photograph would do justice to the species, forging a connection between their story and the hearts of a global audience. Thanks to The Natural History Museum’s platform and the collaborative effort behind this film, I have another opportunity to continue that mission. I couldn’t be more grateful for the chance to champion the Gannet and inspire others to love and protect them as I do."
Rachel's story and lens captures not only the physical impact on these birds but also the ecological implications, as many species struggle to recover. In the film, Rachel recalls her harrowing experience with Avian Influenza:
“The most upsetting aspect of bird flu was witnessing big, bolshy gannets become unrecognisable, quivering wrecks. They were gannets on the outside, but no longer gannets on the inside, a shell of what they once were.”
Rachel’s documentation of avian influenza, which have been featured in National Geographic, document the reality of disease in ways words alone cannot convey.
The effects of avian influenza on species like the Great Skua and Northern Gannet are a stark reminder of the challenges seabirds face in today’s world. Rachel’s work provides an intimate, impactful look at a crisis many people are only vaguely aware of. Her eye for detail and dedication to seabird conservation amplify our mission to educate and advocate for solutions to this devastating issue.
What is Avian influenza?
Commonly known as bird flu, Avian influenza is a viral infection that affects both wild and domestic bird species. The current strain of concern, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, has had a significant impact on the UK's seabird populations since its emergence in 2021. This virus spreads primarily through direct contact with infected birds' saliva, secretions, or droppings, and can also transmit indirectly via contaminated surfaces or through predation.
In response to the alarming rise in seabird mortalities attributed to HPAI, the RSPB led a UK-wide initiative in 2023 known as the HPAI Seabird Survey Project. This collaborative effort involved statutory bodies and conservation organisations to assess the impact of the virus on seabird populations. The survey focused on 14 species, including Gannets, Great Skuas, and Roseate Terns, revealing significant declines in breeding numbers across several species.
Notably, Gannets experienced a 25% decline in breeding numbers at surveyed sites, with a particularly severe 54% decrease in Wales, bringing population numbers there to a low not seen since the 1960s. Great Skuas showed a 76% decline in breeding numbers across their range in Scotland, with some sites reporting declines of over 80%. Roseate Terns, a Red-listed species, also suffered losses during the 2022 breeding season.
Transmission and Impact on Seabirds
Bird flu spreads primarily through direct contact with infected birds' saliva, secretions, or droppings, but can also transmit indirectly through contaminated surfaces or predation. The 2022 UK outbreaks were the largest recorded, affecting 78 bird species, including Gannets and Great Skuas. Populations at sites like RSPB Troup Head and Grassholm have suffered dramatic losses, with numbers dropping to levels not seen since the 1960s. Seabirds are particularly vulnerable due to their long breeding cycles, limited offspring, and already existing pressures from climate change and habitat disruption.
RSPB’s Response and Conservation Efforts
The RSPB has been at the forefront of efforts to monitor and respond to avian influenza. Their work includes tracking outbreaks, researching impacts, and raising funds to support wildlife disease management. Through public education, advocacy, and wildlife disease funds, the RSPB is working to safeguard the future of vulnerable seabird species. Their ongoing conservation efforts are essential in tackling the compounded challenges seabirds face, from avian flu to broader environmental threats.
Comments