News Summary

Huntington Beach is witnessing a significant increase in sick seabirds, with various species being treated at the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center. The condition is tied to a harmful algae bloom caused by Pseudo-nitzschia, which produces neurotoxins affecting marine life. Residents are advised to report distressed seabirds and be cautious of contact with contaminated waters. This environmental issue not only impacts seabirds but also raises concerns for other marine life, such as sea lions and dolphins, amid risks heightened by recent wildfires.

Huntington Beach Faces Surge of Sick Seabirds Linked to Algal Bloom

In a concerning turn of events, Huntington Beach, California, has seen a surge of sick seabirds arriving at the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center. The center is currently caring for a variety of feathered friends in distress, with a total of seven brown pelicans, three Brandt’s cormorants, one double-crested cormorant, one common loon, and three pacific loons receiving urgent medical attention. The plight of these seabirds highlights a larger environmental issue that has community members alarmed and wildlife professionals working round the clock.

The Culprit: Toxic Algae

The health crisis among the seabirds is linked to a harmful algae bloom caused by a microscopic algae known as Pseudo-nitzschia. This tiny organism produces a dangerous neurotoxin called domoic acid (DA), which can accumulate in small fish and shellfish that seabirds typically feed on. In normal, low concentrations, domoic acid might not pose a danger. However, during rapid algae blooms, the levels can spike, leading to serious toxicity in the animals that eat the contaminated prey.

Experts suggest that this current algae bloom may be related to toxic ash that washed into the ocean following recent wildfires in Southern California. The relationship between nature’s wildfires and chemical shifts in the ocean adds another layer of complexity to the environmental challenges facing the region.

Signs of Distress

So, how can residents identify if a seabird is in trouble? Symptoms of domoic acid poisoning in birds typically include awkwardness, loss of balance, difficulty walking or flying, seizures, and significant weight loss due to their inability to forage for food. Many of the birds arriving at the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center are in critical condition, suffering from severe disorientation and recurring seizures. Sadly, despite the medical treatment and IV fluids provided by dedicated staff, many are unable to pull through due to the severity of their conditions.

What You Can Do

Community members are urged to be vigilant. If you notice any seabirds or marine mammals displaying unusual behavior or found in odd locations—such as pelicans wandering on the streets—please do not try to help them yourself. Instead, it’s best to report these findings to wildlife hotlines that are established to assist in these situations. Helpful resources include:

West Coast Region Stranding Hotline: 866-767-6114
Orange County: Pacific Marine Mammal Center – 949-494-3050
Los Angeles County: Marine Mammal Center – 800-39-WHALE
LA County: California Wildlife Center – 310-458-9453 (Press Option 1)
Orange County: Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center – 714-374-5587
LA County: International Bird Rescue – 310-514-2573

The care center is feeling the strain as the number of sick seabirds continues to rise. With resources already stretched, the hard-working staff is pushed to their limits as they care for these vulnerable animals. It’s a stark reminder of the impact human activities and environmental changes can have on local wildlife.

Broader Concerns

But it doesn’t end with seabirds. It’s important to know that sea lions and dolphins have also been reported sick due to the same toxic algal effects. Experts and wildlife specialists are keeping a close eye on the situation as it develops. Historical data has shown that harmful algal blooms often have lasting impacts on local marine life, raising concerns about the overall health and safety of vulnerable species in the region.

During these algal bloom events, public safety is of utmost importance. Residents should be cautious and avoid contact with any standing water showing signs of blooms. Educating ourselves about the dangers of toxic waters can help us protect not only ourselves but also our beloved wildlife.

Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s come together as a community to protect the wildlife that shares our beautiful coastline.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Seabirds in Distress in Huntington Beach: Community Needed

Huntington Beach Seabird Health Crisis Linked to Algal Bloom