Disaster at sea: global warming hits UK birds

In summary, the breeding failure of the guillemots is unprecedented in Europe. The data from Orkney and Shetland show that the populations of small gulls have also probably failed. The trend suggests that the populations of these birds are likely to decline in the future.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
8,142
1,756
...Martin Heubeck of Aberdeen University, who has monitored Shetland seabirds for 30 years, said: "The breeding failure of the guillemots is unprecedented in Europe." More than 6,800 pairs of great skuas were recorded in Shetland in the same census; this year they have produced a handful of chicks - perhaps fewer than 10 - while the arctic skuas (1,120 pairs in the census) have failed to produce any surviving young.

The 24,000 pairs of arctic terns, and the 16,700 pairs of Shetland kittiwakes - small gulls - have "probably suffered complete failure", said Mr Ellis.

In Orkney the picture is very similar, although detailed figures are not yet available. "It looks very bad," said the RSPB's warden on Orkney mainland, Andy Knight. "Very few of the birds have raised any chicks at all." [continued]

http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/environment/story.jsp?story=546138
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Earth sciences news on Phys.org
  • #2
Okay, there we go again.

Most certainly disturbing data on breeding sea bird populations in the North Sea and the correlation between higher sea temps and lower sand eel populations with the secundary effect on bird populations seems sound

But is this a result of Man's burning of fossil fuels? The studies of Andrew Masterman of the UK climate clearly show that the UK warmth since 1988 is the result of persistent warm weather patterns giving above average temps with a small contribution from higher northern hemisphere temps. The higher North Sea temps are caused by the same factors.

So what causes natural variability in UK climate?' Really it's nothing else than variations in weather patterns! That same variation that is cooling South America and South-East Africa for instance And there is little doubt trends will reverse when natural variability favors colder weather patterns across the UK and West Europe.

The specious argument that what is required to cool UK & North Sea temps is greenhouse gas emission reductions is just persisting myth forming and Kyoto propaganda.

BTW The http://archive.greenpeace.org/comms/cbio/hoover.html in the North Sea (they grind them up to make fertiliser, pig-feed etc) was and continues to be a drect attempt to get those species extinct. What a immense hoax to blame global warming. But everything can be explained with global warming, can't it. Let's open our eyes please.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
You would use six years of data to determine a trend? In environmental terms this is nothing short of wild guessing.

First you argue that there is no global warming, then there is, no was, but it was caused by the sun, but it is now stopping. What about all of the incorrect ice core samples that you have argued about? I thought this was the error that implied that global warming was real, when it wasn't, but now was.

Your arguments betray the significance of the events at hand.
 
Last edited:
  • #4
I have no clue what you're talking about. What has this to do with driving sandeels extinct?
 

1. How does global warming affect UK birds?

Global warming affects UK birds in multiple ways. Rising sea levels and increased temperatures can lead to the loss of important nesting and feeding grounds, disrupting their natural habitats. It can also impact their food sources, leading to changes in migration patterns and survival rates.

2. What specific disasters at sea have been caused by global warming?

Disasters at sea caused by global warming include severe storms, hurricanes, and flooding. These events can have devastating effects on UK bird populations, destroying their homes and food sources and leading to a decline in their numbers.

3. Are there any measures being taken to protect UK birds from global warming?

Yes, there are various measures being taken to protect UK birds from the effects of global warming. These include creating protected areas for birds to nest and feed, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and reducing carbon emissions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

4. How can individuals help mitigate the effects of global warming on UK birds?

Individuals can help by reducing their carbon footprint, supporting conservation efforts and sustainable practices, and educating themselves and others about the importance of protecting our planet and its wildlife.

5. What are the long-term consequences for UK birds if global warming continues?

If global warming continues at its current rate, UK birds could face numerous long-term consequences such as further loss of habitat, declines in population, and increased susceptibility to diseases and predators. It is crucial that we take action now to prevent these outcomes and protect our birds for future generations.

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top