Albatross Keep Track of Illegal Fishing

 

Albatrosses have been used to detect illegal fishing in the Indian Ocean in a pioneering study
by researchers at France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).

Illegal fishing is estimated to cost 19.5 billion euros a year globally, but satellite monitoring of boats can be slow, costly and inaccurate.

The team strapped 169 wandering albatrosses with sensors that detect a boat’s radar. The sensors can then confirm whether the boat’s transponder, which enables authorities to track the vessel, is switched on. Transponders are often switched off during illegal fishing.  [Source: New Scientist]