Impact of climate change on wildlife
Climate change is usually a gradual process. This means that some species may be able to change their behaviour and habitats gradually over time. Other species will prove unable to find new habitats and will not adapt to changing weather patterns. Biological cycles that have developed over thousands of years develop gaps or shortfalls. For example if birds migrate earlier because of warm weather, the insects they depend on for food may not yet be available. A few more adaptable species may benefit because they can readily extend their habitat; most cannot and many species face extinction. Among current UK concerns are the changing patterns of migrating birds, species in coastal waters and sudden hive collapse (Colony Collapse Disorder) of bees which pollinate most of our fruit and some of our food crops.
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Useful links
RSPB Wildlife and adaptation (pdf)
The Nature Conservancy The impact of climate change on wildlife
Natural England Changing patterns of wildlife as a result of climate change
Nature's Calendar Changing patterns in UK wildlife
Nature's Calendar Participate in collecting data on our wildlife
Woodland Trust Drought, flood and disappearing wildlife? A challenging new report
WWF Impact of climate change on wildlife around the world