Monach Isles becomes marine protected zone 30/7/14
An extra environmental designation has been imposed on the Monach Isles.
The Monachs, known locally as Heisker, located just to the west of North Uist, have
been made a marine protected due to its population of black guillemots.
The islands are already encompassed by an existing special area of conservation for
dunes, machair and grey seals as well as a special protection area for breeding seabirds.
Ministers have also announced they are considering 14 new areas in Scotland to protect
sea birds and a further four locations to protect basking shark and species of whale
and dolphin.
Scottish Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “Scotland’s seas
are fundamental to our way of life. Environmentally, they are hugely significant
in European and global terms. They are a vast and vital natural resource which also
provide energy, food and recreation. These MPAs will help protect and enhance our
marine environment so that it remains a prized asset for future generations.
“Our
waters support a huge diversity of marine life and habitats, with around 6,500 species
of plants and animals and are among the richest in Europe for marine mammals. Many
of these sites will provide protections for our seabirds like the black guillemot
and sandeels which provide a vital food source. It is our duty to protect these species
and habitats for the present as well as the future.”