Channel Islands seabird storm deaths 'a disaster'

Channel islands wildlife experts want their governments to work together to tackle what is "the biggest seabird disaster of recent years."

Alderney Wildlife Trust has asked the islands to monitor the losses after hundreds of birds washed up on beaches during the recent storms.

A spokesman said; "It is a tragedy which has hit birds as they return to their breeding grounds."

Volunteers will complete beach surveys across the islands this weekend.

In Jersey, the bodies of more than 400 birds, including puffins, cormorants, razorbills and guillemots, have washed up.

The trust said: "Seabirds are of great value to the Channel Islands as creatures of extraordinary grace and beauty, they also play an important role in promoting the islands as nature-friendly holiday destinations."