Scientists predict the extinction of emperor penguins
Emperor penguins' habitats are undergoing changes due to global warming. The climate could lead to the extinction of this bird species, according to The Conversation .
A study by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute of America showed that melting ice by 2100 could cause 98% of emperor penguin colonies to become extinct. On the coast of Antarctica, where they live, there is a familiar balance of sea ice. If there is too much of it, then the parents leave hungry chicks for a long time to get them food. And if it is not enough, then the offspring can drown.
Scientists note that while maintaining the rate of global warming, the ice will melt too quickly, which will lead to the disappearance of almost the entire population of emperor penguins, since they will not have time to evolve to adapt to new conditions.
In 2016, Halley Bay, home to the second largest colony of emperor penguins in Antarctica, collapsed. The cause was the premature melting of sea ice. Then more than 10 thousand chicks died, since then the colony has not yet recovered.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed that this species of seabird be listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Polar bears, ringed seals and several coral species have already entered this register. Emperor penguins do not live on American soil, but listing will help reduce harm from US fishing vessels that may operate in the region.
Researchers are urging the government to adopt policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming.
Recall that in 2019 it became known about the infection of rare kakapo parrots living in New Zealand. Because of this disease, they are threatened with extinction. And in July this year, Chinese authorities announced that giant pandas are no longer an endangered species.
