Seabirds of SãO Tomé and Principe: the taxonomic status of the Oceanodroma Castro population and conservation of the whole community

Rita Covas

This project aims to investigate the little known seabird community of São Tomé and Principe, gathering data on the population numbers, breeding status, and major threats, as well as train local people in seabird field studies and monitoring techniques. In addition, the team will also carry out a study of the taxonomic status of the Madeiran Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma castro), currently breeding on the islets adjacent to São Tomé and Principe. The information gathered and compiled into a synoptic action plan, will be used to define the most effective immediate and long-term seabird conservation strategy.