Climate change affects a lot more than just humans. The effects are extremely dangerous to wildlife as well. With the rising sea levels and destructive forest fires, animals are impacted a lot more than most people realize. However, with the abundance of wildlife today, it’s not easy to figure out which ones are impacted by climate change the most. Here are a few animals that climate change impacts the most.
Turtles
Many species of turtles are susceptible to the damage caused by climate change. Specifically, the number of storms, fluctuating temperatures of the ocean and the rising sea level all have negative repercussions. While the effects may not affect the adult and adolescent turtles, it’s a different story for the sites where they lay their eggs. When you combine the effects of climate change, it leads to nesting areas being unfit; In particular, the already endangered species such as the Bog Turtle would suffer greatly.
The Moose
The moose is a species that’s commonly found in the northern regions of Canada and the United States. However, the effects of climate change make this giant member of the deer family go even further up north. The reason for this is because the number of parasites, namely ticks, within the moose’s habitat are significantly increased due to the warmer weather.
Thousands of these deadly parasites are able to accumulate onto a single moose and feed off of their blood. With all of those parasites on a single moose, it can severely weaken their immune system and cause them to die. What’s worse is that the calves are more vulnerable due to their smaller stature and developing immune systems.
Polar Bears
Polar bears are the poster animals when it comes to climate change. In fact, polar bears were the first animal species to be classified as endangered by the Endangered Species Act. The main reason why polar bears are endangered is because of two reasons; the loss of their habitat and food source. Their main source of food are seals, however, they need the sea ice in order to hunt them.
In addition to humans, climate change affects every living creature. As the effects are widespread, it’s important for everyone to do their part to preserve the earth and its inhabitants.