Global Warming Vs. Endangered Species

Apparently, the gases emitted by modern societies have already established side effects which will inevitably take a toll on nature. Of course, this prediction has remained relevant for decades now; however, as society attempts to decrease the suspected reasons, temperatures still continue to rise. A few associated suspects include carbon dioxide, methane gases, and nitrous oxide. Our gradual utilization of resources that our society so heavily relies on will eventually result in the melting of polar ice caps, a rise in sea level, and the possible extinction of hundreds of species.

First and foremost, what is the greenhouse effect? Similar to a greenhouse, the Earth's atmosphere is allowing light to filter in, but restricting gases, etc. from being released. As each individual utilizes their automobiles, household appliances, and work machinery, the aforementioned gases are being emitted into the atmosphere. While some gases are able to filter through and proceed into space, others remain trapped. The greenhouse effect itself has existed since the beginning of time; however, recent studies discover that the additional gases produced by mankind is combining with natural gases and enhancing the overall effect. The level of gases in the atmosphere today is significantly higher than ever before.

Furthermore, we are not only eventually endangering mankind, but we are also affecting many species of plants and animals. The akikiki, for example, is a rare bird found in the mountainous region of Hawaii. However, as global warming increases temperature in their natural habitat, they are forced to migrate to higher altitudes in search of cooler climates. Eventually, the akikiki will either be forced to adapt to warmer temperatures or face extinction. The grizzly bear, which we all know, once roamed the vast forests and plains of America before the economy and global warming affected the species. Now, many of the remaining species have migrated to Canada. The unfortunate survivors in the lower 48 are now listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Marine species affected by the warm temperatures include bull trout and various species of salmon. As water temperature increases, marine life must migrate to cooler waters. I have included pictures linked to the respective article below.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/photogalleries/091211-ten-threatened-species-animals-global-warming-pictures/

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/photogalleries/091211-ten-threatened-species-animals-global-warming-pictures/photo7.html

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/photogalleries/091211-ten-threatened-species-animals-global-warming-pictures/photo5.html

National Geographic Explorer (2009). Ten U.S. species feeling global warming's heat. Retrieved Dec 30, 2009 from http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/12/photogalleries/091211-ten-threatened-species-animals-global-warming-pictures/