The first young Cory’s Shearwater was rescued and reported by the “SOS Cagarro” (SOS Corey’s Shearwater) Brigade. Due to the foggy weather and strong winds in the past weekend, this bird was disoriented when it fell in the backyard of a private residence in Capelo. The Brigade of the Faial Island Natural Park was promptly called to the scene and the Nature Watchers reported the occurrence, having released the bird on the Porto Pim beach on Monday morning.
Cory’s Shearwaters are very sensitive birds that nest in the Azores. In this context, the archipelago plays a very important role in the reproduction of these birds, as 70% of the population breeds in the Azores. When young specimens leave their nests, they are especially sensitive to building and vehicle lights which will cause them to fall down. This may increase the risk of death by trampling or falling victims to predators. For that reason, it is important to contribute to the safety of young Cory’s Shearwaters whenever they are found in the situations described above.
The “SOS Cagarro” (SOS Cory’s Shearwater) Campaign takes place from October 1 to November 15. It is important to be on the roads and follow the safety rules provided on the Cory’s Shearwater website to rescue fallen young birds when weather condition are bad, particularly if coincident with new moon nights.
The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and the Sea provides further information through the website soscagarro.azores.gov.pt. For any doubt or question, contact the Environmental Services via email [email protected] or telephone.