Keystone seabird may face thermoregulatory challenges in a warming Arctic

Abstract

Climate change affects the Arctic more than any other region, resulting in evolving weather, vanishing sea ice and altered biochemical cycling, which may increase biotic exposure to chemical pollution. We tested thermoregulatory impacts of these changes on the most abundant Arctic seabird, the little auk (Alle alle). This small diving species uses sea ice-habitats for foraging on zooplankton and resting. We equipped eight little auks with 3D accelerometers to monitor behavior, and ingested temperature recorders to measure body temperature (Tb). We also recorded weather conditions, and collected blood to assess mercury (Hg) contamination. There were nonlinear relationships between time engaged in different behaviors and Tb. Tb increased on sea ice, following declines while foraging in polar waters, but changed little when birds were resting on water. Tb also increased when birds were flying, and decreased at the colony after being elevated during flight. Weather conditions, but not Hg contamination, also affected Tb. However, given our small sample size, further research regarding thermoregulatory effects of Hg is warranted. Results suggest that little auk Tb varies with behavior and weather conditions, and that loss of sea ice due to global warming may cause thermoregulatory and energic challenges during foraging trips at sea.

Cold adaptation does not handicap warm tolerance in the most abundant Arctic seabird

“…During the remaining time, birds engage in energetically demanding activities such as flying and diving (flying: 7.24 × basal metabolic rate; diving: 9.37 × basal metabolic rate [36]), which may lead to overheating. Yet, recent field measurements [37] demonstrated that dovekies efficiently alternate periods spent flying and diving, with resting at sea or at the colony enabling the rapid dissipation of muscular heat and body temperature decline.…”