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Climate Change Fuels Deadly Seabird Wrecks Across Europe
2 Mar
Summary
- Thousands of dead seabirds found on UK, France, Spain, Portugal coasts.
- Increased storm frequency and intensity linked to climate change.
- Dead birds found skinny, unable to feed, indicating starvation.
February 2026 has seen thousands of seabirds, including puffins and shags, wash up dead along the coasts of the UK, France, Spain, and Portugal. These 'wrecks' are becoming more frequent, with over 20,000 birds found in France alone since mid-January. Storms such as Chandra and others throughout February have created harsh conditions, preventing seabirds from foraging effectively.
The birds found are notably skinny, showing signs of starvation and exhaustion from battling strong winds and high seas. Studies like the Isle of May Long-Term Study reveal alarming trends, with unusually high numbers of dead shags and puffins reported in February 2026. Some victims had previously survived avian flu and earlier storms.
These mass mortality events pose a significant threat to seabird populations, which rely on adult survival due to their slow breeding cycle. The Isle of May's shag population has been severely impacted, raising concerns for its summer breeding season. Continued scientific monitoring is crucial to understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change on these vulnerable species.
