Scientists fear seabird die-off as El Niño looms: ‘We don’t know how bad this is will get’

Scientists are observing a significant die-off of seabirds along the California coast, with many birds starving to death. This phenomenon is attributed to a prolonged marine heat wave that has reduced the availability of prey fish near the shore. Ornithologists have documented an unusually high number of dead seabirds, including pelicans, loons, and grebes, on beaches. Experts fear this situation could worsen with the formation of El Niño, which is expected to grow to historic strength and further disrupt marine food webs. While seabird die-offs can occur periodically, their increasing frequency is linked to a warming planet and oceans. Wildlife rehabilitation centers have treated hundreds of emaciated birds, some of which are seeking food in unusual inland locations.

A prolonged marine heat wave off California has caused numerous seabirds, including pelicans, loons, and grebes, to starve to death. Record ocean temperatures have reduced the availability of krill, anchovies, and sardines, their primary food sources. Scientists are concerned that the recently formed El Niño, which is expected to be strong, could exacerbate this die-off. Surveys of dead seabirds, conducted for decades, reveal a grim assessment of the heat wave's impact. While seabird die-offs are not uncommon, they are becoming more frequent due to warming oceans. Wildlife rehabilitation centers have treated many emaciated birds, with some seeking food in unusual locations.