Key facts
- Scientists are concerned about a looming El Niño.
- El Niño could worsen an ongoing seabird die-off along the California coast.
- A prolonged marine heat wave has already impacted the region.
- Record ocean temperatures have depleted food sources for seabirds.
- Starvation has affected various seabird species.
Scientists express significant concern that a looming El Niño event could intensify the ongoing seabird die-off along the California coast. This die-off is already a major issue, exacerbated by a prolonged marine heat wave that has gripped the region. The record ocean temperatures associated with the heat wave have severely depleted the food sources available to seabirds, leading to widespread starvation across various species. The potential arrival of El Niño introduces a new layer of worry, as it could further disrupt marine ecosystems and lead to increased mortality rates for already vulnerable seabird populations. The combination of persistent heat and the anticipated El Niño presents a dire outlook for the health of California's coastal birdlife.