The aftermath of storm Pedro proved unexpectedly severe for the northern regions of Spain. The mass death of seabirds, especially little auks, has raised alarms among specialists and coastal residents. Hundreds of dead and weakened birds were found along the coastlines of Galicia, Cantabria, and Asturias, sparking concern among ecologists and local authorities.
The storm brought not only strong winds and heavy rain, but also serious challenges for marine wildlife. According to RUSSPAIN.COM, nearly a thousand dead little auks have been found on the shores of Spain and neighboring countries in recent weeks. These birds, which usually spend winters in northern Europe, were unprepared for prolonged storms and became exhausted battling the harsh weather. Many were unable to find food and died from starvation.
Impact on the ecosystem
Environmental experts note that such events can disrupt the balance of coastal ecosystems. Mass bird deaths affect food chains and may lead to unpredictable consequences for other species. In some areas, such as the Basque Country, over 880 little auk deaths have been recorded, with only a few surviving. The surviving birds are taken to specialized rehabilitation centers, but the chances of full recovery remain extremely low for most.
Authorities and environmental organizations emphasize that if you find dead or weakened birds, you should not attempt to help them yourself. There is a risk of transmitting dangerous diseases, including avian flu. It is recommended to use protective equipment and immediately report any findings to the relevant services or by calling 112.
Recommendations and Measures
To collect information about dead birds, experts advise using the ICAO mobile app, which allows you to quickly report findings. This helps monitor the scale of the issue and identify the causes of mass deaths. After every severe storm, it is recommended to inspect the coastline, but only if all safety precautions are observed and there are no weather hazards.
Nature protection organizations remind that intervening without proper training can make the situation worse. It is important to trust professionals with this work and avoid putting yourself and others at risk. If you find live but weakened birds, carefully isolate them from people and animals until specialists arrive.
Similar Cases in the Past
Mass deaths of seabirds after severe storms have repeatedly been recorded along the Spanish coast. In 2022, a similar situation occurred following cyclone Gloria, when hundreds of dead auks and puffins were found on the beaches of Catalonia and the Bay of Biscay. Experts at the time also noted that the main causes were exhaustion and the inability to find food due to the rough seas. Such events highlight the vulnerability of marine ecosystems to climate change and extreme weather conditions.
