Home / Environment / Seabirds Starving as Ocean Heatwave Hits West Coast
Seabirds Starving as Ocean Heatwave Hits West Coast
17 Sep
Summary
- Murres are starving due to warming ocean waters affecting predator fish.
- Warming waters increase seabird metabolism, leading to starvation and feather loss.
- Wildlife centers are receiving over 100 sick murres weekly.
A severe marine heatwave is impacting the West Coast, leading to a disturbing increase in dead and dying seabirds, primarily murres. Wildlife rescue hospitals are seeing over 100 of these chicks in just a few days. The birds are often found starving, some at half their normal body weight, which prevents them from regrowing vital waterproofing feathers. This condition can lead to organ failure and death, though supportive care offers a chance of survival.
The murres' starvation is linked to warming ocean temperatures that increase the metabolism of predator fish, intensifying competition for food. This situation is comparable to 'The Blob,' a marine heatwave that persisted for two years starting in 2014, significantly altering the marine ecosystem. Scientists estimate millions of birds died during that period, and the murre population has been slow to recover due to their single-egg nesting cycle.
Wildlife rescuers are treating the birds, noting that those released often do well, serving as indicators of ocean health. Anyone finding a sick bird on the beach is urged to gently wrap it and take it to a wildlife hospital immediately. With a surge in patients, rescue centers are requesting public support to cover rising food costs.
