In Audubon's Survival by Degrees study, scientists have already identified at least 93 Saskatchewan bird species that are moderately to highly vulnerable to climate crisis impacts that seem inevitable as average global temperatures rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Climate experts believe we will reach 1.5°C as soon as the early 2030s. If we allow global heating to progress at its current rate, that number will rise to at least 118 Saskatchewan species as soon as 2050 (2°C), and to at least 138 Saskatchewan species as soon as 2080 (3°C). These species include summer, winter, and year-round Saskatchewan residents.

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Climate crisis impacts on Saskatchewan bird species include extreme heat, drought, heavy rainfall, and higher frequencies of fire. Bird species will, in many cases, be forced to leave their regular habitats behind and search for other suitable areas. These shifts will have varying degrees of success, depending on a number of factors.

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Overall, Audubon’s Survival by Degrees study has shown that 64% of North American bird species (389/604) are in danger of extinction due to the climate crisis. Fortunately, the study also suggests that we can mitigate the impacts to 76% of those species if we take the necessary actions to stop global heating right now.

 

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About Ryan 

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Ryan J. Bradshaw is a Saskatoon-based poet and birder. Previous bird-related poetry projects include two full-length stage productions, LOVEbirds and Piping Plover Poetry. Find out more about Ryan and read more of his poetry here.