Melting Polar Bears

Global Warming is not a new phenomenon, and has been known for a long time. One of the major effects of Global Warming is the destruction of many diverse ecosystems across the world. In this case, the Arctic's cycle of melting/forming ice as a landscape for its inhabitants is changing. Many scientists predict that ice-free periods will continue to get longer, and displace many polar bears struggling to find homes right now. These changes will displace many bears that will have to compete for smaller swaths of land in order to survive. Those who refuse to adapt will suffer at the expense of the ocean and be swallowed up by it.
  





The studies done on the Canadian Arctic Archipelago between 2006-2010 suggests that before the end of the twenty first century, that the polar bears habitat could be severely damaged beyond repair. The areas effected will go through 2-5 months of no ice, which is immense for these arctic animals. For polar bears, scientists expect a shortage of food and decline in population for these animals. People can only hope that these changes aren't as drastic as predicted, but the facts speak otherwise.

"Arctic Conditions May Become Critical for Polar Bears by End of 21st Century." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, n.d. Web. 05 Jan. 2015.

Penguin chick weights related to weather?

At the University of Delaware, scientists have been observing the correlation between chick weights and the weather conditions. In the West Antarctic, where the study was conducted, scientists found a shocking correlation between the changing temperatures in Antarctic, and penguin chick weight. The penguins weight as a chick is considered a measurement of how well the chick is doing being raised, and living. A chick that weighs more has a greater chance of living compared to a smaller chick.

The scientists measured the change in temperature since 1950, and found that the temperature raised by 2 degrees Celsius every year. This change in temperature not only directly effects the penguins, but also local weather patterns. The environment is becoming increasingly dry, and making it harder to live for many Arctic creatures. Rains can also dampen chick plumage, and cause them to freeze to death, another danger from the elements. All theses elements account for the dangers of the penguin's changing environment.

"Penguin Chicks." UDaily. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 Nov. 2014. <http://www.udel.edu/udaily/2015/oct/penguin102414.html>.