Incidental mortality of seabirds around Kerguelen Islands (Division 58.5.1) and effectiveness of mitigation measures: 1993/94 to 1995/96 cruises

Incidental captures of seabirds were observed during 93/94 to 95/96 longlining fishing campaigns around Kerguelen islands (division 58.5.1). Mean by-catch rate is 0.81 birds / 1.000 hooks. The species mainly affected is the White-chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis (86 %), because of its diving faculty. The different ways to minimize seabird by-catch proposed by CCAMLR are tested and their effectiveness discussed.