Many animal species migrate during seasons change, often undertaking long, arduous journeys to other parts of the world offering more suitable habitats. However, as the Earth's temperature continues to rise, widespread changes in weather patterns and seasonal disruptions are affecting animal migration, according to the “BBC”.
A new reality for migratory animals
With global climate change, half of all animal species—such as bears, frogs, and squirrels—are constantly on the move, raising an important question: Where are these creatures going?
Researchers at the University of Southern California have confirmed that various species are migrating at accelerated rates due to biological and environmental factors. One such animal is the “pika”, a mountain mammal belonging to the order Lagomorpha.
How does the climate crisis affect animal migration?
In Zimbabwe, Parks and Wildlife Authority spokesperson “Tinashe Farawo” noted that many elephants have migrated to Botswana due to climate change and the resulting lack of rainfall.
Changing bird numbers and behavioral patterns
Britain has seen a significant decline in wild bird populations since the 1970s, due to severe weather conditions that have severely impacted migratory birds, including cuckoos.
Environmental changes have allowed British species such as the City Warbler to spend more time in Europe, while enabling non-native species such as the European Beebird to establish themselves in the UK.
How do deer deal with nature's signals?
Deer continue their annual journey across the Wyoming desert, climbing higher as temperatures rise, taking advantage of the abundant food along their migration route.
Scientists believe that the only guarantee for the healthy survival of animals and humans is to radically reduce environmental pollution. The International Energy Agency (IEA) indicates that all countries must commit to specific deadlines to achieve carbon neutrality, with a glimmer of hope for increased use of clean energy and a more sustainable future.
Annual Migration
Every year, thousands of animal species embark on extraordinary migrations in conjunction with the changing seasons, in search of warmer climates and new food sources. However, rapid climate change and the degradation of natural habitats have forced many of them to modify their traditional migration routes, affecting these creatures and neighboring human communities.
The impact of climate change on animal wildlife
The impact of climate change is clearly evident on wildlife in the United States. While some species are able to adapt quickly to changing conditions, others are unable to do so, especially during the fall migration seasons when environmental shifts begin and organisms prepare for the coming winter.
Therefore, ignoring such a problem could lead to a loss of biodiversity and a significant decline in species that provide many environmental benefits. It is therefore time to control the climate pandemic in order to protect the planet and its living beings.