Climate Change Claims Lives of Migratory Birds in South Africa
European bee-eaters and swallows migrating to South Africa have faced extreme weather conditions, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and heavy rain, leading to a significant drop in temperature, reports Julia Evans for Daily Maverick.
This rare weather event resulted in the death of numerous birds, with reports from various regions in South Africa. The birds, weakened from their long migration, struggled to find food in the cold, and the wet weather further compromised their ability to maintain body heat.
Experts suggest that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, posing a serious threat to bird populations. The cascading effects on ecosystems and the importance of citizen science in documenting such events are emphasized.
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South Africa:
'Devastating' Death of Dozens of Migrating Birds Points to Coming Climate Change Havoc - Experts
Daily Maverick, 12 November 2023
After a drastic change in weather last week, birds were found dead across the country, highlighting the ecological cascade climate change will bring. Read more »
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Uganda:
Wetlands Are Critical to Keeping Migrating Birds Soaring
Independent (Kampala), 14 May 2023
For centuries, the phenomenon of bird migration has awed humanity. So much so, that the 4th Century BC Greek philosopher Aristotle, noting that the types of birds around him… Read more »
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Liberia:
Beyond Borders - Urgent Action Needed to Save Migratory Birds
Liberian Observer, 12 October 2020
Around the world, migratory birds provide immeasurable value to the environment. From pollination, to controlling pests, to food sources for other wildlife species, migratory birds… Read more »
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European Bee-eaters in the Kruger National Park (file photo).