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Survey Reveals Seaweed's Crucial Role for Coastal Wildlife

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A survey by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) highlights the importance of rotting seaweed on a storm beach.
The seaweed provides a rich food source for wildlife, including waders, skylarks, and choughs.
The survey notes rare birds like the hen harrier and a black-headed gull that traveled 1,000 km from Norway.
As spring approaches, high tides disrupt the seaweed piles, attracting more birds and marine life to the area.

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Story summary

A survey by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) highlights the importance of rotting seaweed on a storm beach.
The seaweed provides a rich food source for wildlife, including waders, skylarks, and choughs.
The survey notes rare birds like the hen harrier and a black-headed gull that traveled 1,000 km from Norway.
As spring approaches, high tides disrupt the seaweed piles, attracting more birds and marine life to the area.