INCREASED boat traffic is disturbing many of Scotland’s seabirds, according to new research by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO).

The charity monitored 11 species of seabirds during ferry journeys around Orkney.

Data on more than 6,000 flocks was recorded.

The BTO highlighted increases in boat traffic from dredging, fish farming, offshore wind farms, cruises, and shipping.

Threats from increased activity include collisions, pollution, general disturbance, and the release of non-native and invasive species.

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