Abstract
The primary aim of this report is to provide an overview into the offshore space use of lesser black-
backed gulls in line with the original project aims and in addition to the research presented in the PhD
thesis written as the main output of this project (Sage, 2022). The research presented here is divided
into the following sub aims in the following chapters:
1. In Chapter 2 we present insight into the monitoring efforts that were undertaken, firstly in the
GPS tagging and tracking of individual lesser black-backed gulls from the Schiermonnikoog
colony, and secondly in the breeding monitoring efforts that were carried out at the
Schiermonnikoog colony to investigate broader breeding success and diet. We present an
overview of the data collected and a summary of breeding success.
2. In Chapter 3 we present a brief overview of the aims and conclusions of the main output of
this project, the PhD thesis Sage 2022, entitled: Wind energy for all! The dynamic flight of gulls
in human-engineered landscapes. This chapter is modified from parts of Sage 2022 (Chapter
6).
3. In Chapter 4 we explore the three-dimensional space use of lesser black-backed gulls from
Schiermonnikoog, presenting 2D maps of space use throughout the study period and across
periods of the breeding season, and examining the range of flight altitudes used by gulls at
sea. We also examine flight speeds, proportion of time spent at sea, and comment on how
flight altitude may interact with turbine heights.
4. In Chapter 5 we build upon the knowledge presented in Chapter 4 to carry out a case study
into the overlap between Gemini wind farm area and Schiermonnikoog lesser black-backed
gulls. This case study is carried out as a comparison with the original appropriate assessment
conducted prior to wind farm construction as a way of identifying where assumptions of the
appropriate assessment model can be improved and discussing the added value GPS tracking
data can provide.
5. In Chapter 6 we take a more detailed view of three-dimensional flight within the Gemini wind
farm area and present maps of flight in relation to speed, altitude and distance from turbines.
We identify the different behaviours observed by tracked gulls within the wind farm and
comment on how these behaviours may relate to collision risk.
6. In Chapter 7 we present a summary of the knowledge gaps addressed in this project and
provide an overview of offshoot research that uses data or themes arising from this project.