Bird Photographer of the Year

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BPOTY supports Hookpod for 2019

In 2019 we are proud to be are supporting Hookpod. Being the ultimate challenge for any bird photographer, seabirds at sea are a particular passion of ours. But an estimated 320,000 seabirds are reckoned to be unintentionally hooked and killed each year by fishing activities, of which 100,000 are albatrosses. Hookpod is an innovative solution that has the potential to eliminate the unnecessary deaths of albatrosses and other seabirds killed as a result of longline fishing.  To kickstart the BPOTY Conservation Fund endeavour, BPOTY Directors have given £500 to buy Hookpods.

To find out more about the work of Hookpod and how to ‘Sponsor a Hookpod and save an Albatross’, visit www.hookpod.com But don’t just take Hookpod’s word for it and ours. Here are what luminaries in the conservation world have to say about this remarkable invention: 

Every day, hundreds of albatross die in longline fisheries. But there is a unique and exciting new solution to halt this. It's called a Hookpod. Hookpods stop birds getting caught as they dive for baits. They are effective, easy to use, safe and economic for fishermen. If every pelagic longline fishing fleet used Hookpods, I believe we can stop the accidental death of these magnificent ocean wanderers.’ Sir David Attenborough

What an ingenious and timely idea! Hookpod is delightfully simple - and it really works. Albatrosses need all the help they can get and - if we can get this inspiring invention adopted by every longline fishing vessel - I believe there is hope that the future of these iconic seabirds may not be as bleak as it once was.’ Mark Carwardine

Some thoughts from Hookpod’s Chief Executive

Albatrosses are without doubt masters of the seas and skies. I have been lucky enough to spend many hours observing them in the Falkland Islands; this inspired me to work for their conservation and protection. Although some people may never get to see these amazing birds in the wild, with the help of BPOTY they can experience their grace and beauty. Hookpod has been supported by many organisations and individuals who have been so inspired. Our aim is that Hookpods will allow these beautiful birds to fly free for future generations of bird lovers and photographers alike.Becky Ingham

To find out more and sponsor your own hookpod, please visit www.hookpod.com

A Northern Royal Albatross - just one of the many endangered seabirds at risk of drowning from long-line fishing, deaths that Hookpods could help prevent.