The Predator Free Certification (PFC) is a free and voluntary accreditation set up by Biosecurity for Scotland. It encourages boat operators around Scotland to implement biosecurity measures to help protect Scotland’s seabirds from invasive predators, such as rats, that can have devastating impacts.

Sophie Smith, Biosecurity for Scotland Coordinator said: 

“The accreditation scheme is incredibly important because many of our seabird sites are popular tourist destinations and during the summer season see a large number of boats either landing or sailing around them on tours.

“Boats are a primary pathway by which invasive species in particular rodents could reach these sites, so having increased awareness among visitors and operators is key to mitigating that as much as possible. 

We have an array of islands across the Western Isles that are now served by accredited boat operators. We are hoping to benefit as many seabird islands across Scotland as possible.”

Results from the latest seabird census show that almost half of seabird species in the UK have declined over the last 20 years. Between 2000 and 2021, Kittiwakes have declined by 57% in Scotland and Arctic Tern declined by 54%, while the loveable Puffins declined by 32% in the same period.

One of the greatest terrestrial threats our seabirds face is invasive predators. Rats, mice, stoats, mink, hedgehogs and feral cats can reach islands as stowaways on boats, and will eat seabird eggs, chicks, and even adult birds. These are all species that seabirds breeding on islands have not evolved with, and so they are not able to defend themselves from these predators.

Other pressures facing seabird populations include the climate crisis, bycatch by fisheries, and marine development. On top of these, seabirds have had to contend with bird flu which has had a severe impact.

The PFC is a way of recognising boat operators who have implemented basic biosecurity measures onboard their vessels and in their day-to-day operations.

There are several actions boat operators are asked to take to receive the accreditation:

• Using surveillance such as wax blocks to check for any unwanted stowaways
• Using rat guards on mooring lines
• Talking to passengers about biosecurity
• Allowing Biosecurity for Scotland’s conservation detection dog to check the boat.

The PFC accreditation offers boat operators free online training, all the equipment needed to maintain boats free from stowaways, a certificate of accreditation, a sticker to display their accredited status on vessels and a digital logo to use on websites or promotional materials.

Robert Henry from Jura Boat Tours said:

“I received my biosecurity goodie box which was full of useful products which I will put to good use. I do think it’s fantastic that you’re making boat operators aware of the possible damage, and the remedial measures that we can all take to help eradicate predators to these precious island seabird colonies. Being brought up on an island as a child I was well aware what damage rats and mice were capable of but I have never seen it highlighted in this way to protect the islands that are predator-free.”

Anyone who operates a commercial vessel around Scotland’s seabird islands is invited to join the PFC. Invasive predators can be excellent swimmers – brown rats can swim at least 1km – meaning that even if your vessel doesn’t land on seabird islands biosecurity is still important. Visitor boats, fishing vessels, ferries, and charter boats can all play a part in keeping Scotland’s seabird populations safe.

Barry Adamson from Jenny Wren Boat Charter said:

“Well done to all involved in this long overdue project. I will do my bit to ensure we look after our wildlife as I have seen a big drop in Seabirds over the past few years.”

Neil MacLeod from Immerse Hebrides said: 

“We regularly visit the Shiant Isles for the Puffins, Razorbills, Guillemots and Sea Eagles….We pretty much always mention the rat eradication program and the benefit to the birds and discussing bio-security measures with our passengers will add another layer on our stewardship.”