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Causes of Global Warming
Studies show that the temperature of the earth has risen by 1 degree Fahrenheit in the last 100 years. Subtle temperature changes in the Earth's surface and oceans contribute to the changing climate, but scientists speculate that the greatest impact on the increasing global temperature is caused by humans. Large amounts of greenhouses gases (such as carbon dioxide) released into the atmosphere trap heat and disrupt sunlight. Coal, natural gas, oil and electrical power are all sources of carbon dioxide, and they are used to power everything from industrial plants and airplanes to automobiles and households. Trees and other plant life act as a filter for carbon dioxide, using it as sustenance, then returning it to the atmosphere as oxygen. Mass deforestation reduces the number of trees and plants available to clean the air and, as a result, carbon dioxide levels are becoming increasingly unabated and evermore noxious.
Global Warming and Animal Habitat
As a result of the polar ice caps melting, hunting and living habitats are shrinking. For polar bears, this means the ice they use to hunt is rapidly disappearing. Low-level land masses where animals either live or migrate to are becoming submerged. Warmer temperatures stunt tree growth and make them more susceptible to disease. This not only contributes to the greenhouse effect, but it displaces thousands of animals that rely on trees for shelter and food.
Global Warming and Animal Migration
Many species migrate annually either to reproduce or find warmer or cooler climates. The disruption in global temperature and resulting loss of habitat is forcing these animals to migrate to greater distances. These migratory animals must now compete with established species for already shrinking resources. Seasonal weather-related conditions such as frozen ponds, lakes and seas are occurring much later, complicating the migratory habits of animals that rely on them for their travels.
Species Affected
The National Wildlife Foundation states that there are countless species of animals being affected by global warming. They report that caribou are using energy stores to deflect the increasing number of mosquitoes, and with a decrease in food supply, are not consuming enough energy to survive the winter months. Artic foxes, as well as other cold climate animals, are being forced further north as the rising temperatures make their current habitats unsuitable. Cold-water fish, such as trout, require glacial temperatures to feed and reproduce. The rise in global temperatures raises the temperature of the water to a point that cold-water fish are struggling to survive.
The Domino Effect
The Environmental Defense Fund estimates that 15 to 37 species of plants and animals will become extinct by the year 2050 as the result of a loss of food or habitat, or both. That means that animals that rely on certain plants for survival, and those that rely on other animals, will no longer have that food source.