The reindeer, known as the animal symbol of the Christmas holidays, is facing serious difficulties due to the global warmingA study presented at the annual meeting of the British Ecological Society (BES) in Liverpool and published in the journal Global Change Biology reveals that the reindeer population is declining and those born are increasingly smaller. This phenomenon raises the disturbing possibility that the species is at risk of extinction. Below, we'll explore the causes of this problem.
Reduction in the size and weight of reindeer
Reindeer born in the Norwegian Arctic in 1994 had an average weight of 55 kg, but by 2010, that weight had dropped by 12%, that is, to 48 kg. This change, although it may seem minimal, is crucial to the survival of the species. According to Steve Albon, leader of the study, "when the average adult weight is less than 50 kg, the population suffers a severe decline."
Surface temperatures in the Arctic are now 2.8 degrees centigrade Higher temperatures than those recorded in 2015 have made it difficult for reindeer to feed. The vegetation they consume, such as lichens and mosses, is trapped under layers of ice in winter, preventing them from accessing this essential food. This situation is alarming, as inadequate nutrition can cause abortions in females or the birth of calves that are much lower than normal weight. This phenomenon is linked to the acceleration of global warming and effects it has on Arctic fauna. Furthermore, the impact of global warming on reindeer is becoming more and more evident.
Devastating effects in Siberia
An extreme case of the consequences of climate change was observed on the Yamal Peninsula in Siberia, where it is estimated that 61.000 reindeer died of starvation Between 2013 and 2014, this event was caused by heavy rain and snow. This event caused ice to cover the grass, preventing the reindeer from accessing the food they need to survive.
Since 1994, a team of researchers has been tracking Arctic reindeer, capturing and inspecting them from the age of 10 months, observing their winter migration routes and their return route the following year, taking into account their size and weight. These studies highlight the importance of understanding how the global warming impacts ecosystems and how it affects species such as reindeer. Recent cases, such as that of Siberia, show how the The impact of global warming is devastating.
A phenomenon located in the Arctic
The reindeer, whose scientific name is Rangifer tarandusIs a iconic herbivore of the Arctic, and their well-being is a key indicator of the health of the Arctic ecosystem. However, in recent years, they have come under scrutiny due to the effects of global warming. As the climate changes rapidly, their life cycles and the natural conditions that have sustained their existence for generations are being drastically altered.
It has been documented that warmer weather leads to altered vegetation growth, meaning that reindeer can no longer access their food at the times they need it most for their development y for Growth. This emphasizes the importance of studying the climate change and its causes, especially in the context of reindeer feeding. Changes in vegetation are also related to the global warming and its effects.
Worrying trends in the environment
The increase in temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have put reindeer survival at risk. This is especially evident in regions like Svalbard, an archipelago in northern Norway, where a decrease in the body size of these creatures due to changes in their habitat. As winters become warmer and shorter, the vegetation they consume also changes in its growth cycle, affecting its availability at crucial times of the year.
In a broader context, the scientific community has begun to assess the impacts of climate change on indigenous communities that depend on reindeer for their livelihoods, such as the Sami of Lapland. This people face pressures not only from climate change, but also from human activities and industrial development. droughts and climate change They also affect their way of life and that of the reindeer that need this habitat. The situation is alarming and highlights the need for action against the impact of global warming on reindeer.
The impact of human activity
The human activities In the north, including agriculture, mining, infrastructure, and other forms of development, have restricted access to the grazing lands necessary for reindeer herds. In many areas, reindeer are forced to change their migratory routes due to physical barriers, which in turn reduces their ability to feed.
Marianne Stoessel, researcher at Stockholm University, highlights the serious loss of the habitat facing these animals, stating that "the survival of Nordic reindeer herds is threatened by increasing human presence." This emphasizes the need to address climate change and its consequences not only as an environmental issue, but also as a social and cultural challenge. It is also important to consider the consequences of these conditions. Human population growth and industrialization are taking their toll on wildlife, including reindeer.
Pressure on reindeer habitats is increasing with human development, exacerbating the already difficult situation facing this species. It is crucial to address these issues holistically, taking into account their relationship with the environment. global warming in the Arctic.
Options for the future
Researchers continue to search for solutions, from monitoring the health and size of reindeer populations to studying how the climate is changing these dynamics. Despite alarming projections about the reindeer's future, some scientists suggest that, depending on how the climate evolves, new opportunities for reindeer conservation could emerge. eating y the habitat for these creatures. However, this will also depend on the actions we take now to mitigate climate change.
Those interested in further research on the impact of climate change on reindeer can consult the full study published in the journal Global Change Biology, which analyses the physical conditions of reindeer from 1994 to 2015. The study reveals the importance of taking action against climate change. global warming and its consequences for Arctic wildlife. In addition, the implications of the climate change in forestry.
Monitoring and conservation
Reindeer conservation is critical not only for the well-being of the species, but also for the communities that depend on it. Conservation initiatives and monitoring programs are being implemented to ensure that reindeer reindeer herds can adapt to environmental changes. These initiatives are critical for the future of Arctic wildlife and must be supported by effective legislation.
There are also efforts to educate the public about the importance of reindeer in the culture of indigenous peoples and the need to protect their habitat not only for the reindeer itself, but for all the ecosystem found in the Arctic. This includes research on how the climate change and droughts in this context and the implications for Arctic wildlife. Habitat conservation is essential, given the impact of warming on forest soils.
The call to action is clear: it is imperative that both governments and communities act to reduce the impact of global warming and protect reindeer from the threats they face. This includes effective policies to limit greenhouse gas emissions. greenhouse gases, conservation strategies to protect their habitats and the promotion of sustainable practices that respect the traditions and ways of life of indigenous communities.
The future of the reindeer and the balance of its ecosystem depend on our collective actions. We cannot allow global warming to continue threatening this iconic species and the cultures that depend on it.
The story of the reindeer is a reminder that our choices have consequences, and that the time to act is now. Every effort counts in the fight against climate change and in protecting one of the most beloved symbols of winter.
