Tropical Cyclones Are , Threatening Seabird Populations, Study Warns.
'The Guardian' reports that the increasing frequency of tropical cyclones due to rising global temperatures could result in a dramatic decline in seabird populations.
According to a new study, scientists found that the 2023 Cyclone Ilsa in Western Australia resulted in the collapse of several seabird populations.
.
That collapse impacted 80% to 90% of seabird populations at the internationally important breeding site of Bedout Island.
The study warns that this level of loss would be unsustainable for seabird populations as the intensity and regularity of cyclones continue to increase.
.
These storms carry with them devastating winds, heavy rains and massive swells that disrupt breeding cycles for seabirds.
Seabirds play a crucial role in maintaining tropical reefs, and the study highlights how the loss of these birds could put increased pressure on an already stressed ecosystem.
The problem is twofold: number one was just the intensity of the storm.
, Dr. Alex Bond, principal curator of birds at the Natural History Museum, via 'The Guardian'.
This was the strongest cyclone to hit Australia, and we’re going to see more of that as one of the consequences of the global climate breakdown.
, Dr. Alex Bond, principal curator of birds at the Natural History Museum, via 'The Guardian'.
The other issue is the recovery time, Dr. Alex Bond, principal curator of birds at the Natural History Museum, via 'The Guardian'.
The team's findings were published in the journal 'Communications Earth & Environment.'
