SARASOTA – While red tide continues to irritate humans and kill fish, it is also impacting our feathered friends who migrate from beach to beach.
“Were fortunate that we are only on the outer boundary of where it’s most severe, so thankfully it hasn’t been too bad yet, but that could change any day,” said Veterinarian at Save Our Seabirds, Dr. Maria Passarelli.
As red tide continues to wash up dead fish on Suncoast beaches, different species of birds flock near the shore, many on the hunt for food
“The chicks can’t feed themselves, so the parents have to bring them whatever food they can find and if the fish are toxic, that is going to accumulate and eventually impact birds, it’s all just a matter of how much they eat, and the timeline,” said Shorebird Monitor, of Audobon Florida, Kylie Wilson.
Staff at Save our Seabirds say so far, there have only been a couple of cases of birds affected by the harmful bloom this year
“For the most part those cases made a quick turn around, and were able to go back into the wild,” said Dr. Passarelli.
The non-profit hopes they do not see an influx of sick birds, similar to what they saw in 2018. In the mean time they want any bird watchers to help report sick birds
“They’re usually staggering around, almost as if they are drunk on the beach, they seem really out of it, and unaware of what is happening around them, usually when you approach a bird they get scared and fly away, these guys just seem completely out of it,” said Dr. Passarelli.
And while nesting season is almost over, it is important to be mindful of the birds in their habitat.
“These birds are still out here on the beach, there are still some with chicks, when you see a lot of birds, red tide is just another that these species have to try to contend with to be successful so make sure you’re giving the birds respect and space,” said Wilson.
If you find a sick or injured bird, you can call Save Our Seabirds at 941-388-3010.