New report calls for end to guga hunt amid seabird declines

The Scottish Seabird Centre has today published a new report warning that Scotland’s seabirds are under increasing pressure and calling for an end to licensing of the guga hunt on Sula Sgeir. This follows news this week that a new application for a license has been made for 2026.

The report highlights concerns over recent declines in gannet populations, the lasting impacts of avian influenza, and the risk of disturbance to other vulnerable seabirds, including the highly protected Leach’s storm petrel. It concludes that current licensing decisions are being made despite significant gaps in scientific evidence and growing uncertainty about the long-term resilience of seabird populations.

The report recommends ending the hunt and calls for stronger seabird monitoring, improved scientific modelling, and greater transparency in future decision making. It recognises the cultural importance of the hunt to the Ness community and calls for collaborative support for cultural heritage and community-led conservation initiatives.

Emily Burton, Conservation Manager at the Scottish Seabird Centre said:

“We fully recognise the deep cultural significance of the guga hunt to the Ness community and the strong connection that exists between people, place and tradition. However, Scotland’s seabirds are now facing unprecedented pressures - from avian flu to climate change, and a complex picture of wider environmental decline.

Our report finds that there is simply too much uncertainty, and too many unanswered questions, to justify further licenses for the hunt at this protected site. Taking a precautionary approach is the responsible course of action if we are to safeguard these internationally important seabird populations for future generations.”

Read the Full Report
Here

About the Scottish Seabird Centre

The Scottish Seabird Centre is an award-winning marine conservation and education charity based in the coastal town of North Berwick, overlooking the Bass Rock gannet colony. Their mission is to save seabirds and restore Scotland’s seas through their conservation work, learning programmes and unforgettable wildlife experiences. The Charity has led a range of high-profile conservation and education projects including the SOS Puffin initiative in the Firth of Forth.

Follow the Scottish Seabird Centre on Facebook/ScottishSeabirdCentre. and Instagram/@seabirdcentre.

For more information on the Scottish Seabird Centre visit https://www.seabird.org/about-us

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