Massive Seabird Mortality on French Shores
Numerous guillemots discovered lifeless on French Atlantic coastlines, fatigued from uncharacteristically severe winter tempests hindering their food search
Environmentalists have reported that hundreds of seabirds have been discovered dead on French Atlantic beaches, due to being exhausted by the unusually heavy winter storms that have been preventing them from feeding.
The French League for Birds has estimated that over 500 common guillemots, seabirds that are related to penguins and puffins, have been found dead along the French Atlantic coast since the beginning of the year.
Antoine Prevel, a volunteer for the nonprofit Sea Shepherd France, said guillemot beachings happen regularly in winter, but not to the scale of the past weeks.
A leatherback turtle begins its decent into the abyss
A leatherback turtle begins its decent into the abyss
Samuel J Coe/Moment RF/Getty Images
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Scientists believe that the birds likely died from exhaustion caused by challenging conditions at sea. Jerome Fort, a scientist from France’s National Center for Scientific Research, pointed out that climate change indirectly contributes to these deaths by leading to more frequent and intense storms, especially during winter, which are the primary cause of large numbers of seabirds washing up on shore.
Birds like Guillemots are facing challenges from poisoning by micro plastics and chemical contamination. Additionally, their prey, fish, are becoming scarce and moving closer to shore because of climate change and overfishing, according to Fort.
Guillemots are unable to survive without food for two or three days. This is because they have limited energy reserves and require almost constant feeding.
“In storms like we have seen recently, these birds find it hard to feed properly and will die of exhaustion,” Fort said.
Editor's P/S:
The article highlights the tragic loss of hundreds of seabirds due to the relentless winter storms. As an environmentalist, it pains me to learn of such incidents, which serve as stark reminders of the impact human activities have on wildlife. Climate change is intensifying weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe storms that disrupt the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. The death of these seabirds is a symptom of a much larger problem, emphasizing the urgent need to address climate change and protect our oceans.
It's crucial to recognize that the challenges faced by guillemots extend beyond extreme weather events. Pollution, overfishing, and loss of habitat further exacerbate their plight. These birds play a vital role in the marine ecosystem, serving as indicators of the health of our oceans. Their decline should not be taken lightly. Conservation efforts must focus on reducing plastic pollution, regulating overfishing, and protecting marine habitats. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable future for these magnificent creatures and ensure the health of our oceans for generations to come.
