Observers report unusual sea gull lethargy and die-offs on area beaches.
Dead seagulls were found near five coastal villages of the district - Ryrkaipia, Nutepelmena, Lorino, Lavrentiya and Enurmino. The largest number of dead birds were found near the village of Ryrkaipiy in the Egvekinot municipality. Local residents reported that there were several dozen Eastern Siberian gulls on the shore and ice floes.
On Sunday, Austin Ahmasuk went along the beach to his camp at the Sinuk River, about 28 miles from Nome, and shortly after hitting West Beach past the port, he found one dead seabird on the shore.
Dead seagulls and magpies
Dead seagulls, puffins, murres
Observations From Members 