Balearic Puffin listed as an endangered species

A World Nature Conservation (IUCN) Congress being held in Bangkok, gave a warning yesterday that 15'589 species of animals and plants are under threat of extinction, amongst them the Balearic Puffin (Puffinus mauretanicus). A report presented to coincide with the opening of this, the third IUCN congress to which 81 countries and 800 non-governmental groups subscribe, said that urgent measures are needed to halt the rapid deterioration of natural ecosystems which are diminishing at an unprecedented rate throughout the world. The Balearic Puffin was declared Wildfowl of the year in 2001 with the aim of drawing attention to this little-known endangered species, and of urging the Balearic government to invest funds and expertise in its conservation. The seabird measures between 30-38 centimetres in length with a wing span ranging from 76 to 89 centimetres. It is distinguished from its nearest relative, the Mediterranean Puffin (Puffinus yelkouan) by its slightly larger size and clearer markings on its upper body. Underneath colouring on the Balearic Puffin tends to be darker than that of its cousin, although there is considerable individual variation. These differences between the two Mediterranean species are at their most visible at the time of moulting. Later, such distinction becomes more difficult and it is easy to confuse the two.