Plastic Waste Transport by Seabirds: Herring Gull Larus argentatus Pontoppidan, 1763 (Charadriiformes: Laridae) Acts as a Vector Transferring Anthropogenic Debris to the Coastal Zone

This study focuses on the role of herring gulls in transporting plastic waste to coastal zones, particularly in the Barents Sea. Key topics include the composition and quantity of plastic found in gull pellets, the nesting density of herring gulls, and the environmental impact of plastic pollution. The research reveals that herring gulls are ingesting and excreting significant amounts of plastic, primarily in the form of film and food packaging. The study also highlights the increasing density of gull nests on Salny Island and the potential long-term effects of plastic ingestion on seabird populations. The findings underscore the urgent need for measures to mitigate plastic pollution and protect marine ecosystems. By examining the size, color, and composition of plastic fragments, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the types of plastic being transported by these birds. The results indicate that herring gulls are playing a crucial role in the distribution of plastic waste, with potential consequences for both the birds and the broader ecosystem. This research offers valuable insights into the dynamics of plastic pollution and the behavior of seabirds, contributing to our understanding of the environmental challenges posed by anthropogenic debris.