Monterey Bay seabirds may face algae bloom risks

Lately, the Monterey Bay has been foamy because of an algae bloom off the coast. It’s not toxic, but poses problems for seabirds. According to local experts, this same algae bloom caused major problems back in October of 2007, killing off hundreds of seabirds in just weeks.

When waves crash onshore they break up the particles in the algae and foam forms, scientists say.

“It becomes a surfactant, which means it breaks down the water proofing of the feathers of the birds,” said Jim Harvey, Director of Moss Landing Marine Labs, “the foam gets all over the birds and then they lose their ability to keep warm.”

Not able to keep warm, the birds then face hypothermia.

The SPCA for Monterey County works to help sick seabirds dealing with a range of problems. So far this year it’s taken in about 500 birds but none related to the algae bloom just yet. In 2007, when the bloom caused major problems for seabirds, the SCPA took in 500 in just three days.

“We’re being hopeful that this isn’t going to happen this time but we’re ready if it does,” said Beth Brookhouser, Director of Community Outreach with the SPCA.

According to wildlife experts, they’re expecting at least a few seabirds to die because of the bloom this year but it’s unclear whether it’ll be as bad as it was in 2007.

“We know it’s there and we know it could be a problem, so we just have to be ready to respond,” said Harvey.

If you ever encounter struggling seabirds at the beaches, contact the SPCA for Monterey County at 831-373-2631.