Reindeer in mortal danger: Climate change is massively threatening Arctic species!

Reindeer in mortal danger: Climate change is massively threatening Arctic species!

The reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, are severely threatened by climate change. Since the last 30 years their population has fallen by almost two thirds. This alarming trend could continue: forecasts show that the reindeer population could continue to decline by 58% by the end of the century if greenhouse gas emissions remain constant. In North America the decline could be as high as 84%, while in southern Asia reindeer may disappear completely. Urgent action is required to protect these unique animals and their habitats North Sea newspaper reported.

A comprehensive study published in the journal Science Advances shows the dramatic evolution of reindeer populations over 21,000 years. Fossils, genetic data and models were used to make the population development understandable. What is particularly worrying is that research into the population in the last years of the century has revealed something unprecedented: we are on the verge of an irreversible decline that endangers the reindeer's safe survival limit.

Migratory behavior of reindeer

The reindeer are known for their migratory patterns, covering distances of up to 5,000 kilometers between summer and winter areas each year. These impressive hikes are led by older animals who show the younger ones the way. Despite their impressive mobility, increasingly vulnerable habitats and difficult climatic conditions are affecting their movements, which the Website The Weather explained in detail.

In recent years it has also become apparent that reindeer increasingly avoid strenuous activities when the snow cover is closed in order to save energy. Their diet consists mainly of lichens, mosses and fungi, which are becoming increasingly difficult to find under current climatic conditions. Human interventions, such as the construction of roads and dams, also make it difficult for them to access pastures and thus threaten their migration routes.

The importance for indigenous communities

Reindeer herding has not only ecological but also deep cultural significance. It is an integral part of the way of life of indigenous communities in the north. Traditional knowledge is passed down from generation to generation and is critical to the economic stability and survival of these communities. As scientific studies show, reindeer herders are forced to respond flexibly to critical weather conditions to help their herds find the best grazing spots.

The challenges posed by climate change are enormous. Increases in temperature, changing rainfall patterns and snow changes have long-term effects on reindeer herding. According to the WWF, reindeer are not the only Arctic residents suffering from the new conditions. Other animals, such as whales, whose habitats are affected by melting ice, are also at risk. Researchers warn of a decline in biodiversity in these fragile ecosystems, making the importance of conservation measures even more urgent, according to a report by the WWF is to be read.