ReSCUE: Reducing Seabird Collisions Using Evidence

Status: Active

Start Date: August 2023

Lead Organisation: Natural England

This initiative aims to reduce the incidence of seabird collisions with offshore windfarms in UK waters by enhancing our understanding of seabird flight heights and associated collision risks. Key strategies involve bolstering confidence in methods for estimating seabird flight heights, consolidating existing evidence and gathering new data on these heights, and developing accessible datasets and tools for public use. The anticipated outcome is a decreased consenting risk for upcoming offshore windfarm projects and the provision of valuable insights for effective mitigation efforts. This, in turn, supports the growth of the offshore wind industry while concurrently safeguarding and aiding the recovery of vulnerable seabird species.