Seychelles Approves Sooty Tern Egg Harvesting for 2026

On March 4, 2026, the Government of Seychelles approved the controlled harvesting of sooty tern eggs for the year 2026. This decision follows technical discussions aimed at establishing sustainable quotas and identifying appropriate collection sites to ensure the conservation of the species while allowing for traditional practices.

Background

Sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscatus) are seabirds that nest in large colonies on certain islands within Seychelles. The harvesting of their eggs has been a traditional practice among Seychellois communities. However, concerns over declining populations have led to the implementation of regulatory measures to balance conservation efforts with cultural practices.

Key Provisions

• Quotas: Specific limits on the number of eggs that can be harvested will be established to prevent overexploitation.
• Collection Sites: Designated islands and areas will be identified where egg collection is permitted, based on ecological assessments.
• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of sooty tern populations and the impact of egg harvesting will be conducted to inform future management decisions.

Implications

This decision aims to:

• Conserve Biodiversity: Ensure the long-term viability of sooty tern populations through regulated harvesting.
• Preserve Cultural Practices: Allow communities to continue traditional egg harvesting in a sustainable manner.
• Promote Sustainable Use: Serve as a model for balancing conservation with sustainable use of natural resources.

Next Steps

Following the approval, the next steps include:

• Finalizing and publishing the specific quotas and designated collection sites.
• Implementing monitoring programs to assess the impact of harvesting on sooty tern populations.
• Engaging with local communities to ensure compliance with regulations and promote awareness of conservation efforts.

This initiative reflects Seychelles' commitment to sustainable resource management and the integration of conservation principles with cultural traditions.