Study: Third of land-animal habitats threatened by 2085 with warming
A new study out today warns that by 2085, one in three land animal habitats could be hit hard by extreme weather such as fires and floods if global temperatures keep rising.
Lead researcher Stefanie Heinicke points out these threats are often underestimated when we talk about protecting wildlife.
Heat waves could affect most habitats
Scientists looked at nearly 34,000 animal species and found that by 2050, heat waves alone could impact almost three-quarters of their habitats.
Wildfires, droughts, and floods are also major risks, especially in places such as the Amazon, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
The team highlighted how events such as Australia's 2019-20 heat wave killed more than 72,000 flying foxes as a warning sign for what is to come.
They are urging faster action on climate change and more research into how animals can adapt.