Amid cold snap, fish struggle to adapt

GULF SHORES, Ala. (WALA) - The cold weather is doing a number on the mullet population in our area. Hundreds of dead fish have washed ashore in Gulf Shores

At least 300 mullet have been found dead along Little Lagoon in Gulf Shores and other areas. Vacationer Larry Day and his wife spotted the fish Monday morning.

"I saw these dead fish and we haven't seen dead fish like this. So it's pretty unusual," said Day. "I don't know what to think about it."

Researchers with Alabama Marine Resources say these fish just couldn't handle the recent cold snap.

"Here is one that is barely swimming," said Day, referencing a struggling fish.

The fish have been popping up dead since this past weekend. Marine biologists say their phones have been ringing off the hook ever since.

Biologists say this didn't happen last winter, but this season is different.

"Because we have had a prolonged period of cold. It happens more widespread where people have noticed and that's why we are getting the extra calls," said biologist Karon Radzick.

Experts tell us if the cold weather continues, we will be seeing a lot more of this.

"Praying it gets warmer, praying it gets warmer," said Day.

If there is any good to come out of this, biologists say the dead fish will still make good bait. They also say the fish do not appear to be a danger to society.

However, if you are concerned, contact your local wildlife agency. The white mullet, also locally called "silver mullet", is most commonly affected by the cold event.