Seabirds

Seabirds are a vital part of the ocean ecosystem, connecting land, air, and sea. From the soaring albatross to the iconic emperor penguin, these birds have adapted to some of the harshest environments on Earth. They play key roles in marine food webs and help scientists monitor the health of ocean ecosystems.

Researchers study sea birds to better understand how ocean conditions affect their survival, behavior, and reproduction. Seabirds are sensitive to changes in climate, food availability, and habitat loss, making them essential indicators of broader environmental change.

Much of the recent focus has been on emperor penguins, the largest living penguin species. These birds depend on stable sea ice to raise their chicks, but warming temperatures and melting ice are threatening their future. Scientists are utilizing everything from drones to satellite imagery and even specialized robots to monitor colonies and track how populations evolve.

Studies also explore how seabirds respond to extreme weather, such as tropical cyclones, and how their behaviors—from feeding to nesting—are influenced by shifting ocean patterns. Some research has even examined the surprising effects of personality traits, such as boldness, on mate selection and survival.

As climate change accelerates, sea birds face growing risks—but they also offer critical insight into what’s happening across Earth’s ocean systems.