Is seabird light‐induced mortality explained by the visual system development?

Abstract

Abstract Seabirds are impacted by coastal light pollution, leading to massive mortality events. Juveniles comprise the majority of affected individuals, while adults are only seldom grounded and reported in rescue programs. We propose a connection between visual system development of burrow nesting seabirds and the observed higher vulnerability to light pollution by a specific age group. We illustrate the need for multidisciplinary research to better understand and further mitigate light‐induced mortality.

Keywords

• fallout
• light attraction
• light pollution
• petrel
• seabird vision
• visual development