Researchers track migration routes of Europe's smallest seabird

Researchers from the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research and Nord University tracked the migration patterns of the little shearwater, Europe's smallest seabird, at Sklinna near the Leka municipality in Norway.

The study used tiny light loggers weighing only 0.5 grams to monitor the birds. The data revealed that the birds travel a long distance, flying south along the Norwegian coast past Western Europe and Portugal.

They continue along the coast of Morocco and West Africa before rounding the southern tip of Africa and reaching near Madagascar. The little shearwater is a nocturnal bird that hides in caves and is related to the albatross. Because of its small size, the bird waits until autumn darkness to lay a single egg to avoid predators like gulls. While the bird is not currently considered an endangered species, scientists note that knowledge about its population in Norway remains limited.

Martin Eggen from BirdLife Norge stated that researchers need more data on population trends and colony locations. This information is necessary because Norway plans to develop offshore wind power. Eggen said the data will help ensure that new infrastructure does not conflict with the birds' important migration routes and feeding areas.