Impact of Climate Change on Arctic Wildlife

Steve Zack discusses the unique wildlife of the Arctic, focusing on migratory birds that travel from all over the world to breed in the region. The short growing season and lack of predators make it an ideal breeding ground. However, climate change is causing earlier seasons, affecting bird migration and breeding patterns. Shoreline erosion due to melting permafrost is another concern, impacting shorebirds and polar bears. Conservation efforts face challenges due to these changes, highlighting the global significance of the Arctic's ecosystem.

What makes the Arctic tundra a lively place during certain times of the year?

• The migration of whales

• The constant snowfall

• The arrival of birds from various continents

• The presence of polar bears year-round

Which animals are mentioned as part of the Arctic wildlife?

• Elephants and giraffes

• Polar bears and musk ox

• Lions and tigers

• Penguins and seals

Why do many migratory birds choose the Arctic for breeding?

• It has a long growing season

• The weather is consistently warm

• There are few predators

• It is close to the equator

What is a significant factor that attracts birds to the Arctic for breeding?

• Abundant food supply year-round

• Remote location with few predators

• Constant daylight

• Proximity to the equator

How is climate change affecting the timing of bird migration to the Arctic?

• Birds are not migrating anymore

• Birds are arriving earlier each year

• Birds are arriving later each year

• Birds are migrating to different continents

What is a concern regarding the timing of bird migration due to climate change?

• Birds may miss the peak insect availability

• Birds may arrive too late for breeding

• Birds may face increased competition

• Birds may not find enough nesting sites

What is one of the effects of climate change on Arctic shorelines?

• Expansion of polar bear habitats

• Increased snowfall

• Shoreline erosion

• Formation of new icebergs

What new challenge did researchers encounter due to climate change?

• Increased snowfall

• Polar bears unable to access sea ice

• Decreased bird populations

• More frequent storms

What challenge did researchers face while studying climate change in the Arctic?

• Lack of funding

• Inaccessibility due to polar bears

• Unpredictable weather patterns

• Shortage of research equipment

Why is the Arctic considered globally significant in terms of wildlife?

• Its wildlife is connected to global migration patterns

• It is home to the most diverse species

• It is the largest habitat on Earth

• It has the highest number of endangered species