ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) – Scientists estimate that thousands of dead seabirds are washing up along the coasts of western Alaska.

Common murres, an abundant North Pacific seabird, have been found dead on shores from Shishmaref to St. Lawrence Island since last month, KTUU-TV reported Wednesday.

A dead bird has been examined at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s migratory bird office in Anchorage and more are being sent in to be tested, said Robb Kaler, a wildlife biologist for the service.

“The results come back pretty quickly. Currently, they determined the cause of death appears to...