Gannets (Morus) are large North Atlantic seabirds, known for 2m wingspans and white bodies with yellow heads.
NatureScot has refused a licence for Scotland’s last remaining guga hunt on Sula Sgeir, citing concerns that harvesting 500–2,000 young gannets could affect the gannet population and site integrity. Campaigners celebrate as activists urge Parliament to permanently ban the exemption that allows the hunt.
Australia faces H5N1 spread among wildlife as Baudin Rocks mass mortality events are confirmed. Victoria and South Australia report dead and sick crested terns; New Zealand begins vaccination research to protect native birds; farmers strengthen biosecurity while communities assist with surveillance.
NatureScot has refused a 2026 licence for the Ness Guga Hunt on Sula Sgeir, despite earlier FOI-derived debate about modelling and possible impac t on seabirds. MPs urge greater local input as petitions mount; opponents say the hunt is cruel while supporters stress cultural significance.