Managing Invasive Plant Species on Seabird Islands

This document aims to provide useful information for those involved in the control of
invasive plant species in coastal habitats. It is intended to inform others of the experience
gained and lessons learnt from 18 years of conservation work and research on the islands
near North Berwick, Scotland, with particular emphasis on the island of Craigleith.
Craigleith is one of four uninhabited islands near North Berwick, the other three being the
Bass Rock, Fidra and the Lamb. All are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
and also as a Special Protection Area (SPA) as part of the larger Forth Islands SPA (106 ha).
These designations are primarily because of the important breeding seabird populations.
The research and conservation initiatives explored in this document were only made
possible through continuing collaboration with landowners, partner organisations,
community groups, and dedicated volunteers. These include Sir Hew Dalrymple and family,
the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Uri Geller, NatureScot, the Lothian Sea Kayak
Club, Forth Seabird Group, Scottish Rural College, and Professor René van der Wal. However,
the primary driving force behind the success of this project is undoubtedly the tireless work
of volunteers, particularly those who have coordinated the project for almost two decades
via the Craigleith Management Group.