Marine heat wave caused seabird deaths off California. El Nino could worsen the die-off

A marine heat wave has been linked to widespread seabird deaths along parts of the California coast, according to surveys conducted by scientists and volunteers for decades. AP reports that ornithologist Tammy Russell documented feathered carcasses across a San Diego beach, including birds mixed with washed-up kelp and others under rocks. The die-off, affecting species such as California brown pelicans, loons and grebes, was attributed to record-setting ocean temperatures that reduced the band of cold, nutrient-rich surface water where krill, anchovies and sardines thrive. Russell said some birds were observed dying within minutes. Researchers warn the recently formed El Niño could worsen the situation, and NOAA confirmed in June that El Niño formed and is expected to strengthen. NOAA said the current marine heat wave has persisted for parts of the West Coast for about a year, only the third time such a large section stayed warm for so long. Scripps data show several coastal stations breaking temperature records for 40 days or more.