This summer: Global warming and animals

Global warming has affected life on Earth for hundreds of years. This year, Europe suffers heat waves that result from the Omega Block, a ridge of high pressure that traps an arid and hot atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Western United States suffers from severe water deficits and unprecedented heat alongside the monsoon season. While humans complain about the lack of outdoor tourism and stable conditions that result from this climate, the impact of global warming on animals amidst this is overlooked.

California Seabirds
At the California coast, people discover the terrible sight of dead birds on sand, stone, and roads. Hundreds of birds, which include pelicans, murres, and cormorants, have fallen victim to disturbed food webs. Their prey, such as the batfish, krill, anchovies, and sardines, moved farther offshore to seek the colder climates they are used to, leaving coastline seabirds without prey. Malnourished after unfruitful attempts at seeking food, the sea birds fall into the ocean and are ultimately washed up on beaches. Beyond those already noticed by humans, there are numerous more who have lost their lives while unseen.

Fortunately, scientists and veterinarian volunteers have united through rehabilitation organizations to treat animals. They perform surgeries and other medical procedures on animals with disrupted body functions or injuries as a result of this summer’s climate. Facilities like the SeaWorld Animal Rescue Center join in this effort by serving as vital rehabilitation homes for animals in need.

France Poultry
In France, large-scale chicken farms have reported massive die-offs of their livestock in July, with some farms losing one-third of their chickens. This incurs massive damages to farmers due to lowered production of eggs and no poultry to sell off in the coming weeks. The also lacks adequate treatment for the dead bodies of the chickens, creating storage issues amidst the burning summer heat.

The problem with poultry in France shows how global warming affects not only food chains of animals, but also eating habits of humans. Even domesticated animals succumb in face of extreme climate conditions. The consequences of global climate warming extend into industries that may be seen as unrelated, when in reality our climate is the basis for all development and livelihood. The poultry tragedy in France reflects the importance of maintaining the environment for human habits to continue functioning.

From starving Seabirds to overheated poultry farms, this summer’s extreme temperate events are an early warning about the destructive nature of a disregarded climate. While humans feel inconvenienced by the heat, animals face life-threathening consequences and should be addressed with more aid and attention as climate issues escalate in the next decade.