USGS Pacific Seabird Research

Alaska's coastal and offshore waters provide foraging habitat for an estimated 100 million birds comprising more than 90 different species. Researchers at the USGS Alaska Science Center work in collaboration with many partner agencies, non-governmental organizations, universities and rehabilitation centers to investigate seabirds. USGS ecosystems research is focused on increasing our understanding of factors that influence the abundance, distribution, prey, behavior, movement, habitat use, threats, and the response of seabirds to changes in the marine environment. From counting seabirds at sea or on nesting colonies to assessing population status and modeling seabird response to climate variability, we depend on energetic, creative, and dedicated teams of scientists to brave the outdoor elements and the constantly changing analytical challenges that must be overcome to properly interpret changes in complex environments.

For more information about USGS seabird research and how you can get involved, visit the links below.

• USGS Alaska Science Center – Seabirds and Forage Fish Ecology
• USGS Western Ecological Research Center – Seabird Health and Adaptive Management
• USGS National Wildlife Health Center