THE EFFECT OF THE 1997–1998 EL NIÑO ON RHINOCEROS AUKLETS ON PROTECTION ISLAND, WASHINGTON

Abstract

Abstract The 1997–1998 El Nino event was one of the most severe warm episodes the Pacific Ocean experienced during the 20th century. In Washington, it resulted in above-normal sea surface temperatures and sea levels during 1997–1998 on the state's outer coast and in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Sea surface temperature anomalies of the two areas were highly correlated during 1995–2000. Rhinoceros Auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) chick growth rates on Protection Island in the eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca were significantly lower (19%) during the El Nino years. Although chicks' peak weights were lowest during 1997, they did not significantly differ from non-El Nino years, suggesting that birds were able to compensate for smaller or less frequent chick feedings by extending the chicks' time in the burrow. Consequently, chicks were also significantly older at peak weight during this warm event, which likely led to prolonged fledging periods. However, the 1997–1998 El Nino did not affect other aspects of Rhinoce...