Seabird Oil Sensitivity Index (SOSI)

This seabird data was combined with individual seabird species sensitivity index values. These index values are based on a number of factors which are considered to contribute towards the sensitivity of seabirds to oil pollution. Factors such as habitat flexibility (a species ability to locate to alternative feeding sites), adult survival rate, potential annual productivity, and the proportion of the biogeographical population in the UK were classified following the methods developed by Certain et al (2015) (see link under ‘Additional Information’ tab).

The combined seabird data and species sensitivity index values are subsequently summed at each location to create a single measure of seabird sensitivity to oil pollution. This is presented as a series of fine scale density maps for each month that show the median, minimum and maximum seabird sensitivity to oil pollution, and an indication of data confidence. The index is independent of where oil pollution is most likely to occur; rather, it indicates where the highest seabird sensitivities might lie if there were to be a pollution incident.

The SOSI report (to access see link under ‘Data Sources’ tab) is accompanied by a Geographical Information System (GIS) which can be used to identify seabird sensitivity in specific key areas. These can be downloaded by following the links under ‘Data Sources’ tab. The SOSI report and GIS can be used by a range of scientific, nature conservation, industry, and government bodies for oil pollution contingency planning (such as in Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (OPEP) preparation) and for use in live emergency incidents.

JNCC will produce guidance on using the SOSI in contingency planning. Check JNCC webpage for updates (see link under ‘Additional Information’ tab).