Current climate change represents one of the most significant challenges for all living beings on our planet. Although some species could benefit from environmental changes, it is estimated that a considerable number of them will face extinction, creating a void in the ecosystems they inhabit. A recent study, conducted by the University of Queensland (Australia) and published in the scientific journal 'Nature Climate Change', reveals that The impact of climate change on animals is much more severe than previously considered.
Endangered species
Among the animals that could disappear in the near future are primates and elephants. Curiously, their survival strategies, which have allowed them to survive over time, such as caring for one or two offspring, are becoming a liability. In the context of a world where change occurs at an accelerated pace, Those who can have more offspring will have a better chance of survival and it is vital to consider how the impact of climate change on wildlife can influence their survival, as well as how Germany experiences the effects of climate change in its biodiversity. In addition, it is essential that we review how the Climate change impacts wildlife historical and current.
The researchers who carried out this study, in which they analyzed data from 136 investigations on 120 species of mammals and 569 species of birds, concluded that 414 of the 873 mammal species evaluated have difficulty adapting to climate change.. In the case of birds, the situation is similar, as 23.4% (298 species) are also at risk. This impact of climate change on animals is something that must be addressed urgently, also considering the consequences of forest fires and how the cities that could disappear due to global warming show the seriousness of this situation.
To delve deeper into the subject, it is interesting to observe how the study on the effects of climate change on the flora and fauna of Europe complements the findings of this new study. It is also important to consider how the global warming affects biodiversity in general.
Factors of climate change
Climate change, exacerbated by human activity, could lead to the extinction of a significant number of animal species around the world. Although the goal is to keep the global average temperature below 2°C compared to the levels of the Industrial Revolution, scientists warn that meeting this goal will be an arduous task. Temperature fluctuations, ecosystem disruption, and extreme weather events are just some of the consequences we face. For example, a related study can provide more context on this issue.
An IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report highlights that nearly half of the world's population is "highly vulnerable" to the effects of climate change. However, animals are not exempt from suffering the consequences of this climate crisis. Below are some of the most critical impacts that climate change is having on them:
1) Extreme Droughts
In regions such as the Horn of Africa (Ethiopia and Somalia), extreme droughts have increased due to climate variations. Since 1970, rainfall has been declining, while temperatures continue to rise. This has a direct impact on vegetation and animals: as rainfall decreases, the availability of water and food is reduced. For example, in 2017, thousands of animals lost their lives in Bolivia, and another 30,000 were rescued by disaster relief teams. In 2016, during one of the most severe drought episodes in Thailand's history, more than 40,000 buffaloes and oxen were assisted, a clear example of how the climate change affects wildlife in various regions of the world, including children in Mauritania who also suffer its consequences.
2) Thaw, Rain and Floods
The consequences of global warming are visible with the melting of the ice caps, which in turn raises sea levels. This threatens coastal cities around the world with flooding and storms, which have been responsible for around 80% of all natural disasters in the last decade. In one region of Argentina hit by floods in 2016, nearly 24,000 animals, including dogs, horses, and oxen, were reported to have suffered the consequences. This behavior is part of the impact of climate change on animals that can be observed globally and highlights the importance of understanding how climate change affects animals. Climate change is causing extreme events.
The need to address the impact of climate change in Spain It is also alarming, given that the region's biodiversity is facing severe challenges. Climate change also has a much broader effect on flora, as we can see in the adaptation of plants to climate change.
3) The Zud Phenomenon
The phenomenon known as zud has had a devastating impact in certain areas, especially in Mongolia. During one event in 2015, extreme cold led to the death of 170,000 alpacas. Intense summer droughts in Mongolia are followed by extremely harsh winters, creating unfavorable conditions for wildlife. In 2016, more than 160,000 animals received help during a zud, and the number rose to 350,000 in the case of a similar crisis that same year. This problem is linked to how the climate change affects wildlife in various parts of the world.
4) Megastorms
As the climate continues to change, intense storms Typhoons and hurricanes are becoming increasingly frequent. These storms, fueled by intense evaporation of water due to rising ocean temperatures, create massive destruction in their wake. For example, Hurricane Matthew impacted more than 670,000 animals in Haiti, causing extensive damage to wildlife and habitats. This phenomenon is a clear example of how the impact of climate change on animals can be devastating and is linked to the intensification of hurricanes.
Furthermore, the deserted zones are also at risk, leading to considerable loss of animal habitats.
5) Diseases
Climate change also contributes to the disease spreadResearch conducted around the world has linked the rise of diseases such as Ebola, dengue, malaria, and Lyme disease to climate change. During natural disasters, animals are at risk of contracting serious infections. For example, during storms and floods, anthrax and Newcastle disease have been reported. Exposure to extreme weather conditions can result in respiratory problems, malnutrition, and dehydration, jeopardizing their survival. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider how animals, including amphibians, are greatly affected by these changes.
It is also crucial to consider how it affects the amphibians, which are sensitive to variations in temperature and humidity.
6) Extreme Heat Waves
In the last two decades, heat waves have emerged as one of the main causes of mortality among animals. In 2010, a heatwave killed half of the short-billed black cockatoo population in Australia. Since 1994, more than 45,000 of the world's largest bats have died during 21 episodes of extreme heat. This phenomenon reflects the impact of climate change on animals, manifested in mass die-offs, and is linked to the global warming and its devastating effects.
7) Migration
Climate change interferes with the migratory patterns of numerous animal species. Changing temperatures force animals to alter their migration routes and, in some cases, to stop migrating altogether. This has a domino effect on the entire ecosystem; for example, warming in the Arctic is harming Alaskan salmon populations, affecting the diet of bears that depend on them. Studies have shown that the climate is altering the migration patterns of birds, butterflies, and fish, such as the great tit in Europe and the monarch butterfly, reflecting the impact of climate change on wildlife.
Protecting Animals in Crisis
Scientific evidence underscores that humans are the undisputed cause of climate change. Industrial production and agriculture not only cause suffering to millions of farm animals but are also a significant factor in global warming. It is crucial to take action to transform our food system, which is currently broken and unsustainable. To ensure the survival of vulnerable species, it is imperative to end factory farming. We must move toward plant-based diets and establish high standards of animal welfare in the remaining production, as discussed in investing in green infrastructure.
Actions We Can Take Now
Your participation is essential to transforming our global food system and addressing climate change. Here are some actions you can take:
- Reduce your consumption of meat and dairy products.
- Opt for more options plant-based protein.
- If you consume animal products, choose those that come from high-welfare practices.
- Ask your political representatives to stop any plans to expand factory farms.
- Demand stricter animal welfare policies in production.
- Share and give voice to those who cannot speak.
Climate change is putting animals at serious risk around the world. With support, we can protect their habitats and promote sustainable and effective solutions.
As we continue to confront this crisis, it is crucial to increase awareness and action, not only to ensure the survival of endangered species, but also to protect the wealth of biodiversity on which we all depend. Every action counts, and together, we can make a difference.
