Climate Change Turns Male Turtles into Females

Climate Change Turns Male Turtles into Females

Global warming has caused devastating effects on migratory species, including the potential disappearance of male sea turtles.

A report by the British bird research organization reveals that climate change may disrupt the migration and reproduction of many species, with catastrophic consequences for vulnerable creatures like sea turtles.

Rising temperatures could result in an all-female turtle population, as the gender of hatchlings is influenced by water temperature. Additionally, one-third of turtle nesting sites in the Caribbean could be destroyed due to rising sea levels.

Whales, polar bears, and migratory birds crossing the increasingly expansive Sahara Desert are also among the most vulnerable species.

“Because they rely on specific habitats, migratory birds and animals are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,” said Jim Knight, the UK’s Minister for Biodiversity. “They are among the first creatures to show us the consequences of global warming on wildlife. Some of the challenges they face are issues we are likely to see in other species in the coming decades.”

While rising temperatures may benefit certain species, they could drive others to the brink of extinction, the report emphasizes.