An influx of dead and injured birds washing ashore in Florida has raised concerns about the impact of stormy weather conditions on local wildlife. Reports from Florida Wildlife Hospital indicate that 76 birds have been found in recent days, with many of them being pelagic birds that usually spend their lives flying out over the water. Veterinarian April Greer mentioned that the strong winds caused by storms may be causing these birds to come inland, which can be detrimental to their well-being. She also stated that necropsies or autopsies would be conducted to determine the cause of death for these birds.
Beachgoer Michael O’Meally noted that while a small number of dead birds are often found on beaches following storms, the recent surge in bird casualties is unusual. He observed that the birds may be washing ashore due to exhaustion caused by rough waters interfering with their ability to fly and feed. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been contacted for comment on the bird situation but has not responded as of yet. With a tropical disturbance off Florida’s Atlantic coast predicted to potentially form into a tropical storm, the situation for the birds could worsen if the stormy weather persists.
Warnings have already been issued in Florida, including high surf advisories, small craft advisories, a rip current statement, and warnings for inexperienced swimmers to stay out of affected waters. Earlier in the month, heavy rainfall and flooding had impacted multiple areas in the state, leading to Governor Ron DeSantis declaring a state of emergency. While storms may cause some birds to wash ashore, most are able to fly around them, seek shelter, or endure severe weather events. Seabirds have been known to successfully navigate hurricanes, as was observed during Hurricane Idalia when the storm inadvertently led to an expansion of Florida’s flamingo population.
Overall, the surge in dead and injured birds in Florida raises concerns about the potential impact of stormy weather conditions on local wildlife. The birds, many of which are pelagic species not used to being inland, may be washing ashore due to exhaustion caused by rough waters and strong winds. With a tropical disturbance off Florida’s coast, the situation for the birds could worsen if the storm develops further. While storms can impact wildlife, most birds have survival mechanisms to endure severe weather events. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been contacted for comment, but no response has been received yet. Further investigations and necropsies will be conducted to determine the cause of death for the affected birds.
