Seeing red

In recent weeks, about 600 birds have been stranded onshore in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. Scientists blame it on the red tide.

The red tide is an algal bloom that has been circulating in the bay at the same time these birds have been found ashore. It’s common in Monterey at this time of year. Scientists also say that such red tides are becoming more frequent and serious worldwide; they link this to climate change, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Either directly or as a byproduct, red tides produce a protein which scientists believe stick to the birds’ feathers and make them incapable of keeping themselves dry and warm. This would force the birds to leave the water in which they live and feed off of.

Dave Jessup, a state Department of Fish and Game veterinarian, said birds hurt by the red tide include loons and pelicans. 70 of these birds have died, and 530 have been taken to rescue centers, where their feathers are cleaned. Fish and marine mammals, however, seem to be unaffected.

Jessup also said that the red tide is likely to stay in the area until it is pushed out by a major weather system. Until then, the algal bloom may continue to injure birds.

http://www.foxnews.com/wires/2007Nov30/0,4670,RedTideBirds,00.html