Sea Foam Death Toll Over 10,000 Birds

The recent algal bloom in the Pacific Northwest has subsided but more than 10,000 birds were killed by its effects, according to OregonLive.com. The majority of the birds were surf and white-winged scoters, though many other bird species also suffered losses, including common murres and red-throated loons. Fortunately, the combined efforts of different conservation agencies, rehabilitation facilities and hundreds of volunteers and donators have made it possible to save hundreds of birds that are now healthy and being released.

While the majority of the birds affected do not belong to critically threatened species, some of the species are in decline and this massive event has conservationists concerned about long term impact on the birds' populations.

For more information on the ongoing bird rescues, including how you can help, visit the International Bird Rescue Research Center.

Surf Scoter
Photo © Mike Baird, flickr.bairdphotos.com