A marine heat wave caused seabird deaths off California. El Nino could worsen the die-off
Summary
A marine heat wave off California has caused many seabirds to starve and die because their food moved to deeper, cooler water. Scientists worry the problem could get worse with the arrival of El Nino, which causes warming in the Pacific Ocean.Key Facts
- Many seabirds including pelicans, loons, and grebes are dying from starvation along the California coast.
- The marine heat wave has lasted for about a year, warming ocean waters and reducing cold, nutrient-rich areas where small fish and krill live.
- Scientists found dead seabirds on beaches from regular surveys that monitor the health of marine life.
- El Nino, a natural warming of the central Pacific confirmed by NOAA in June, may increase ocean temperatures further.
- Die-offs of seabirds happen sometimes but are becoming more frequent with global ocean warming.
- Ocean temperatures at several California coastal stations broke records by staying high for over 40 days.
- Researchers use tools like buckets, lifeguard reports, and robotic underwater gliders to measure ocean temperatures.
- Scientists and wildlife officials say not all seabird deaths this year are due to the heat wave, but it is a major factor.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.