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With its sword-like, spiral tusk, the narwhal is referred to as “the unicorn of the sea.” These mythical looking sea mammals dive deep beneath the ice to find food. In winter months, they frequently live beneath "pack ice", and rely on thin narrow openings used as breathing holes.
Unfortunately, the melting polar ice cap and increased rains are decreasing the salt content in nearby ocean water. This has resulted in colder temperatures, causing these narrow cracks to more easily freeze over. The narwhal is left trapped beneath, and if they can't get up to the surface to breathe, they drown. |
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In 1985, almost 4,000 moose called northwestern Minnesota home. Today there are only around 100 left.
Why? Warming temperatures have made it difficult for moose to stay cool. When heat stressed, moose are more susceptible to parasites and malnutrition. Some scientists predict that moose could disappear from northern Minnesota altogether in the next fifty years. |
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According to a U.S. Geological Survey report, a polar bear cub now has less than a fifty percent chance of living to adulthood. And by 2050, it's expected that two thirds of the world's polar bear population may disappear if nothing is done to dramatically curb global warming. These majestic animals are faced with a habitat that is literally melting under their paws. |
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We must act quickly to address rising global temperatures, and protect threatened species.
You can show your support for the wildlife you cherish by voting today and making a donation
to help the National Wildlife Federation safeguard imperiled animals and their habitats.
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