GannetCam aimed at halting wildflife’s decline

Following the success of PuffinCam, one of the longest-established British Isles wildlife webcams, the Alderney Wildlife Trust has launched GannetCam to monitor approximately 6,000 breeding northern gannet pairs which live on Les Etacs from February to October. A powerful zoom lens will point toward ‘Pyramid Rock’ to stream the colony in high definition 24 hours a day until the breeding season ends.

AWT manager Roland Gauvain said GannetCam brings new insight into the lives of one of the largest British sea birds.

‘This project is vital if we are to succeed in halting the decline of our wildlife and put nature into recovery. Join us in this battle to secure the future of these iconic seabirds.’

Members of the public are asked to report unusual events or interactions, since ecologists cannot monitor the cameras constantly.

Complex behavioural interactions in a harsh environment will be broadcast around the world to support scientific study on the impacts of pollution, climate change and fisheries.

States of Alderney member for the environment Annie Burgess said it will be wonderful to see the colony’s interactions.

‘To watch them nest and feed their young is going to be so interesting. Seeing the birds living in close proximity and watching all the daily challenges they face is going to be a fascinating insight into the life of these beautiful seabirds.’

Sure Guernsey has provided free broadband for PuffinCam for more than 10 years, which will continue with GannetCam.

‘It’s a privilege to live alongside the wildlife that makes our islands so unique and to play a part in its conservation,’ said Justin Bellinger, Sure chief executive.

Mr Bellinger said the company is proud to help the public connect with nature and hopes people around the world enjoy watching the gannets and puffins.

. Visit www.teachingthroughnature.co.uk/gannet-cam to view the live stream.