Arctic Squirrels Have a Climate Change Problem

Arctic Squirrels Have a Climate Change Problem As per a recent study, Arctic ground squirrels are facing trouble dealing with climate change. Once considered scientific curiosities for their habit of hibernating for up to eight months a year, arctic squirrels are now facing a serious problem. According to the study, they cannot self-regulate their temperature in warmer weather and are dying off at alarming rates because of global warming.
The research team found that the rodents, tiny and adorable, don’t sweat when the temperature rises. Instead, they must rely on evaporative cooling, which can work well in low humidity environments. But in the arctic, humidity levels often exceed 80 percent, making the process of evaporation less effective. As the planet heats up, the squirrels, which live in the soils of the drier areas in Canada, are vulnerable to overheating and extinction. In the face of climate change, it is crucial to understand the effects of global warming on different species. The findings of this study have important implications for the welfare of arctic squirrels, as well as for the ecosystems they inhabit. By taking this issue seriously, we can develop sound policies to minimize the damage and reduce the risk of extinction.