Incidental bycatch in fisheries refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species during fishing operations. This includes several species of seabirds and bycatch has become a major threat to the survival of seabird populations in the region. Studies have shown that incidental bycatch of seabirds in Namibian waters is a widespread and persistent problem, affecting several species of seabirds, including the Cape Gannet, as well as a range of oceanic birds, such as albatrosses and petrels.
The impacts of incidental bycatch is severe, with birds being either killed or injured during the capture process. One study estimated that up to 11,000 seabirds were being killed annually as bycatch in Namibian waters. In addition, the loss of individuals from these populations can have negative effects on the overall health and reproductive success of these species. Furthermore, the longline fishing gear commonly used in Namibian waters poses a significant threat to seabirds as it can ensnare multiple birds at once, leading to high levels of mortality.
Conservation measures aimed at reducing the impact of incidental bycatch on Namibian seabirds are critical for the preservation of these species and their habitats. These measures include changes to fishing gear and practices, as well as monitoring and enforcement programmes to ensure that fishing operations are carried out in an environmentally sustainable manner. The use of bird-scaring lines and night-time setting of longline gear has been shown to significantly reduce seabird bycatch. The implementation of these conservation measures will be essential in ensuring the survival of Namibia's seabird populations and the preservation of their habitats.
