More than 50,000 seals killed by bird flu - scientists sound the alarm
Scientists have recorded mass deaths of seals and sea lions due to H5N1 bird flu. More than 50,000 animals have died in South America. Researchers warn: the virus continues to spread and poses a serious threat to ecosystems.
According to the study, the H5N1 virus has already killed:
- at least 36,000 sea lions
- about 17,400 southern elephant seals
- more than 1,000 harbour seals
Outbreaks have been recorded along the coasts of Peru, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina.
Scientists say marine mammals have been particularly vulnerable to the virus, which initially spread to birds.
"This is a huge, unprecedented risk to species conservation," said study author Christine Johnson.
Details
The mass die-off of southern sea elephants in 2023 was a particularly alarming signal.
"They became a sort of canary in the mine, warning of a more serious problem," the researchers noted.
Later, cases of infestations began to be recorded in other regions, including the US.
Why it matters
Scientists emphasise that the virus continues to change and expands the range of animals it can affect.
This creates several risks at once:
- mass mortality of marine species
- threats to rare and vulnerable populations
- possible further spread
Of particular concern are species that have not yet been affected by the virus, such as the Hawaiian monk seal or the sea lions of the Galapagos.
The study shows that there is a need to:
- increase wildlife surveillance
- detect outbreaks more quickly
- improve coordination between countries and scientists
Experts also urge to keep in mind that bird flu is only one of the threats. Marine animals are already facing climate change, food shortages and habitat loss.
Background
The H5N1 virus was first discovered in 1996 and has since spread almost worldwide.
Source
The new study is published in the journal Philosophical Transactions B and focuses on the impact of the virus on marine mammals.