Marine ornithologist Tammy Russell reported a shocking die-off of seabirds on the California coast, with many birds starving as a marine heat wave persists. The alarming situation has emerged as El Niño conditions develop, leading scientists to worry about the potential consequences for marine life.
Seabird Deaths Linked to Marine Heat Wave
Over recent months, scientists and volunteers have conducted numerous surveys along the coast, revealing a grim picture. California brown pelicans, loons, and grebes have been found dead, victims of starvation due to record-high ocean temperatures. This phenomenon has reduced the availability of essential cold, nutrient-rich waters where species like krill, anchovies, and sardines thrive.
“We’ve been seeing cormorants walk to shore and then just die within the hour,” Russell explained. “One time it happened within 15 minutes, and I’ve never seen that before.” The die-off is occurring across the entire coast, and scientists remain uncertain about how much worse it could get.
El Niño's Role in Worsening Conditions
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed the formation of an El Niño in June, which is expected to reach historic strength. While periodic die-offs of seabirds are not uncommon, this year's incidents are notably increasing in frequency, correlating with the ongoing marine heat wave.
“We don’t know how bad this is going to get,” Russell stated, highlighting the worries among marine scientists. The current marine heat wave marks only the third time on record that such a large section of coastal waters has remained warm for an extended period.
Impact on Seabird Habitats and Food Sources
As cold-water species migrate deeper and farther north, the combined effects of the marine heat wave and El Niño threaten to disrupt food webs for various marine life, including seabirds. Wildlife rehabilitation centers have treated hundreds of emaciated birds, and unusual behavior has been noted among species like the brown pelican.
- Inland sightings: Brown pelicans have been spotted in inland lakes, searching for food.
- Injury risks: Birds are being found with fishing line and fishhook injuries.
- Young mortality: High mortality rates are observed among young Brandt’s cormorants and common murres.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported that many seabirds examined this year were young and emaciated, with most testing negative for avian flu. Some had opportunistic infections linked to malnourishment, raising concerns about the broader implications of warming ocean temperatures.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Guardian Environment. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
