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Story summary
- In early 2026, Europe faced a seabird mortality event with more than 38,000 birds stranded along the Atlantic coast.
- France reported 32,000 strandings, while Spain and Portugal logged 5,000 and 1,200 respectively.
- Puffins were particularly affected, likely starving as stormy weather disrupted their hunting.
- Experts warn that overfishing and climate change threaten seabird survival.
- Ten UK seabird species, including puffins, are on the conservation red list.
