A developing Super El Niño could pose a serious threat to seabirds by disrupting marine ecosystems and reducing the availability of food, scientists have warned. El Niño causes ocean temperatures to rise above normal levels across parts of the Pacific. Warmer waters can reduce the supply of nutrients reaching surface waters, affecting plankton, krill and small fish that form the foundation of the marine food chain. As fish and other prey become less available or move to different areas, seabirds may have to travel farther to find food. This can leave birds weak and underweight, make it harder for them to feed their chicks and reduce breeding success. Seabird deaths have already been reported along parts of the California coast, with common murres among the affected species. In Peru, Humboldt penguins are also facing additional pressure as warmer coastal waters can reduce access to their main food sources. Scientists are closely monitoring the situation because previous strong El Niño events have been linked to large seabird die-offs and poor breeding seasons. The developing 2026–27 El Niño could create further stress if ocean warming and food shortages intensify. Seabirds are also important indicators of ocean health. Changes in their numbers, body condition and breeding success can provide early warnings about wider disruptions taking place in marine ecosystems. Scientists will continue monitoring ocean temperatures, fish populations and seabird health to understand how severe the impact of the developing El Niño could become.
