An seabird species that had all but vanished from local shores has returned home to Northern Ireland after decades away.
For the first time in recent memory, Manx shearwaters have been confirmed breeding again on Rathlin Island, marking a significant win for both wildlife and the community working to protect it, according to a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds release.
Once abundant along the North Atlantic, these graceful seabirds — known for their long wings and haunting nighttime calls — had stopped nesting on the island by the end of the 20th century. Rats and ferrets took over their nesting sites, eating eggs and chicks until the population collapsed.
Rare bird breeds on island for first time in decades https://t.co/xIxuig5eVV
— Louise Cullen (@LouiseMCullen) October 1, 2025
After patient work through the LIFE Raft project, the team finally got the moment they'd been waiting for. In September, young Manx shearwaters could be seen tucked safely inside their burrows on night vision cameras.
Ric Else, senior research assistant for the LIFE Raft project, had been waiting years not only for confirmation of nesting but for proof of successful breeding.
"This was exactly what I have been hoping to see for years," Else said in the RSPB release.
Find the best HVAC solution to heat and cool your home more efficiently Mitsubishi Electric’s efficient heating and cooling HVAC solutions can help you stay comfortable no matter the weather or region. You can even regulate temperatures in each room with individually controlled all-electric heat pump systems. With an energy-efficient, all-climate system from Mitsubishi, you can reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home, receive up to $2,000 in tax credits, and get peace of mind knowing you’re choosing rigorously tested, high-quality products. |
The return of the Manx shearwater shows how restoring balance to even small islands can have ripple effects. Healthy seabird colonies help maintain ocean ecosystems — a vital part of sustaining fisheries, coastlines, and the communities that depend on them.
"This is an incredibly exciting step forward for Rathlin's seabirds," said Liam McFaul, RSPB warden for Rathlin Island reserve. "Seeing the footage of the Manx shearwater going into the burrows again on Rathlin is incredible."
Rathlin's story is part of a broader pattern. In Brazil, golden lion tamarins have bounced back from near extinction. And in the Galápagos Islands, the tiny leaf-toed gecko has returned after disappearing for decades — different places, same happy ending.
Each small comeback, like this one on Rathlin Island, is a reminder that with persistence — and a bit of hope — nature has an incredible ability to recover.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
