Over 4 Million Common Murres Died in 2016 Marine Heat Wave, Half of Alaskan Population Lost

Dec 15, 2024, 01:43 PM

A recent study has revealed that over 4 million common murres died during a marine heat wave in 2016, marking the largest documented animal die-off in modern history. This unprecedented event, primarily affecting the Alaskan region, resulted in a significant decline in the population of these seabirds, with reports indicating that half of the population was lost. The die-off is characterized as the largest recorded mortality event among nonfish vertebrates, highlighting the severe impact of ocean heat on marine wildlife. Researchers have expressed concern over the implications of such drastic population decreases for the ecosystem.