Sooty Albatross (Phoebetria fusca) - vulnerable species listing

The Scientific Committee, established by the Threatened Species Conservation Act has made a Final Determination to list the Sooty Albatross, Phoebetria fusca(Hilsenberg 1822) as a VULNERABLE SPECIES on Schedule 2 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act. Listing of Vulnerable Species is provided for by Section 14 of the Act.

NSW Scientific Committee - final determination

The Scientific Committee has found that:

1. Phoebetria fusca is a species of albatross which is an uncommon visitor to New South Wales waters.

2. Although P. fusca is a poorly known species there is evidence that the population is currently declining.

3. There is evidence that P. fusca is one of the species of albatross included in bycatch of long-line fishing operations.

4. In view of the evidence of population decline and the threat from long-line fishing the Scientific Committee is of the opinion that the species is likely to become endangered unless the circumstances and factors threatening its survival cease to operate and that therefore the species qualifies for inclusion on Schedule 2 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act as a VULNERABLE SPECIES.

Associate Professor Paul Adam
Deputy Chairperson
Scientific Committee

Gazetted: 31/1/97