Report of the Working Group on Seabird Ecology (WGSE)

•WGSE considered further the effects of climate change on seabirds and presents two new case studies using data provided by the Working Group on Oceanic Hydrography, data also provided to other WGs. The data were of some use in highlighting effects of sea surface temperature on black‐legged kittiwake populations; the overall importance of choosing appropriate hydrographic data to explore associations between physical and biological components of the ecosystem is stressed.•In response to a request by the European Commission, the problem of incidental catch of seabirds in longline fisheries in EU waters was reviewed by WGSE. Although there are few data to indicate the true extent of the bycatch problem, enough information exists to recognise that there is indeed a problem, and that the EU should develop and implement a Community Plan of Action aimed at investigating the issue further and at reducing this bycatch.•An updated review of the ecological role and effects of viral and bacterial parasites in seabird populations is presented.