THE cliff-dwelling seabird colonies along Dorset’s coastline are one of the greatest local wildlife spectacles.

But news that certain breeds are facing a ‘storm of decline’ in some parts of the UK, is causing widespread concern for their future.

Populations of birds such as the guillemot and kittiwake in Scotland have fallen by as much as 63 per cent since 2000, according to a new study by the RSPB.

The charity said the fall in numbers in the so-called ‘seabird cities’ could indicate ‘continuing problems’ for the seabird population more widely.

It is now investigating a link between the change in feeding patterns and the decline in seabird numbers.

Katie Black, a ranger based at Durlston Country Park, who monitors the seabird population at the nature reserve near Swanage, said numbers of certain breeds have been steadily declining over recent years.

“Although we are still awaiting the results of this year’s survey, I’m not expecting any significant changes,” she told the Echo.

“The population of certain breeds such as the kittiwakes and cormorants has significantly declined but there are some breeds that are faring quite well here compared to many other parts of the country. The numbers of guillemots and razorbills are stable and may even be increasing.

“In some ways we are doing quite well compared to places like Scotland although they are still vulnerable to disturbance here – particularly from people in motor boats.”

Nicky Hoar of the Dorset Wildlife Trust, urged people to do their bit by supporting Great Dorset Seafood, a new campaign being launched this weekend to save local sea life.

“Part of the problem is climate change and the decline in their food supplies such as sand eels and small fish as a result of over fishing.

“This is one thing that we can all do something about – by thinking about the seafood we buy.

“Overfishing and unsustainable fishing methods are among the biggest problems facing the world’s oceans.”

Dorset has one of the few fisheries in the UK that does not allow boats over 12 metres to fish within six miles of the coast so locally caught seafood is likely to have less impact on the seabed and wildlife.

A study of birds living on the northern islands of Scotland found some were flying as far south as Dundee – some 217 miles – to find food.

Scientists have fitted the birds with ‘sat nav’ devices to try to understand why populations are in such decline.

The Future of the Atlantic Marine Environment (FAME), an RSPB-backed project, traced the birds’ flight patterns using GPS technology.

Doug Gilbert, RSPB Scotland reserves ecologist, said: “Seabirds, like razorbills and guillemots, are in big trouble on our nature reserves.

“We are sure these declines are closely linked with the birds’ food supply, which in turn is influenced by changes in the marine environment, partly driven by climate change.

“The FAME project is giving us vital information on how far some birds are having to travel to get food. It’s revolutionising our understanding of the birds’ feeding habits.”

Rory Crawford, RSPB’s seabird policy officer, added: “What is most important is that this information is used to improve conservation measures for our seabird colonies. These birds need vastly improved protection at sea if they are to have any hope of weathering this storm.”

l The Great Dorset Seafood campaign and website (greatdorsetseafood.org.uk) will be launched at the Dorset Seafood festival this weekend in Weymouth.