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<p>An unprecedented wreck of razorbills (<i>Alca torda</i>) occurred along the Mediterranean Sea during the winter of 2022/2023. To determine the potential causes of death and origin of these birds, 46 dead razorbills (juveniles and immature birds) collected on the coast of Málaga (Spain) were analyzed. Necropsies revealed poor body condition and signs of starvation in most birds. Influenza virus was excluded through PCR testing. However, a high prevalence (58%) of gastrointestinal nematodes was found, primarily <i>Contracaecum variegatum</i>, associated with esophageal and proventricular ulcers in 60% of razorbills. Stable isotope analysis of feathers showed that most of the birds likely were from North Sea colonies, although 33% of the individuals were possibly from other breeding locations. Persistent Atlantic storms likely triggered this wreck by impeding foraging and forcing migration of weakened razorbills. Although starvation induced by harsh weather seemed to be the primary cause of mortality, the high parasite loads and associated digestive ulcers found in most razorbills may have acted synergistically to further weaken these already emaciated birds. The interplay of these factors offers a better understanding of the multifaceted drivers of mass seabird wreck events.</p>

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Disentangling the main causes and potential origin of an unusual razorbill (Alca torda) die-off in the Mediterranean Sea

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月28日

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  • Ángela Loring,
  • Joan Giménez,
  • Sara Dallarés,
  • Salvador García-Barcelona,
  • Joan Navarro

摘要

An unprecedented wreck of razorbills (Alca torda) occurred along the Mediterranean Sea during the winter of 2022/2023. To determine the potential causes of death and origin of these birds, 46 dead razorbills (juveniles and immature birds) collected on the coast of Málaga (Spain) were analyzed. Necropsies revealed poor body condition and signs of starvation in most birds. Influenza virus was excluded through PCR testing. However, a high prevalence (58%) of gastrointestinal nematodes was found, primarily Contracaecum variegatum, associated with esophageal and proventricular ulcers in 60% of razorbills. Stable isotope analysis of feathers showed that most of the birds likely were from North Sea colonies, although 33% of the individuals were possibly from other breeding locations. Persistent Atlantic storms likely triggered this wreck by impeding foraging and forcing migration of weakened razorbills. Although starvation induced by harsh weather seemed to be the primary cause of mortality, the high parasite loads and associated digestive ulcers found in most razorbills may have acted synergistically to further weaken these already emaciated birds. The interplay of these factors offers a better understanding of the multifaceted drivers of mass seabird wreck events.