Little Auks Injured During Storm Darragh Along UK East Coast

Wildlife rescue facilities along the UK’s eastern coastline are attending to several little auks, a type of seabird, which sustained injuries during Storm Darragh. Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue, situated in North East Lincolnshire, reported that numerous birds under their supervision had incurred “minor injuries from crash landings” due to the strong winds. These birds have been discovered in residential gardens and public thoroughfares, spanning from the Scottish borders south to the Lincolnshire Wash. Annually in winter, little auks endeavor to migrate westward from the Arctic region to forage in more temperate zones; however, powerful winds can divert their trajectory. The RSPB describes the little auk as a diminutive seabird, measuring no more than 7.5in (19cm) tall, which flies close to the sea with extremely rapid, whirring wingbeats. Aaron Goss of Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue stated that his organization had admitted six birds in recent days and anticipated additional arrivals. He commented, “The highest concentration of these birds has been reported in and around Louth. To assist these birds, we are extending our hours tonight to triage them”. Mr. Goss mentioned that some birds had already undergone X-rays and “veterinary evaluations for injuries sustained during landing”. Commencing in October, little auks initiate their migration from the Arctic. They represent one of many seabird species observed by specialists across the entire UK coastline. In recent days, hundreds of little auks have been sighted along the East Yorkshire coast. Craig Thomas, chair of Flamborough Bird Observatory, explained, “The thinking is that quite a few birds were attempting to move west, some as far as Newfoundland, but as a result of Storm Darragh they were pushed into the North Sea”. Mr. Thomas noted that these birds frequently lack the strength to fly amidst powerful winds and can become fatigued. He added, “Yesterday we saw 330 little auks moving north from Flamborough – that’s the highest count we’ve had for a decade”. Mr. Thomas indicated that numerous birds would likely attempt to “sit it out” and await a decrease in the strong winds prior to continuing their travels. Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue, via its social media platforms, announced its collaboration with other rescue organizations and veterinary clinics to manage any additional admissions in the vicinity. “While we don’t have an exact count, reports indicate that up to 30 little auks have been sighted inland at various times.”Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.