A changing climate for the seabirds and shorebirds of the Great Barrier Reef

Abstract

The Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2009 identifies seabirds as being highly vulnerable to the potential consequences of climate change. Under the Great Barrier Reef Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2012, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) is supporting research to determine the extent and the temporal and spatial patterns of observed bird declines at key breeding sites on the Great Barrier Reef. This information will help define the knowledge gaps and information required to guide appropriate management strategies aimed at improving seabird and shorebird resilience to a changing climate.