Climate change and sea ice loss leaves polar bears exposed to more diseases, research suggests.
As the Arctic warms, polar bears face a growing risk of contracting viruses, bacteria and parasites that they were less likely to encounter just 30 years ago, research has revealed.
The researchers found that significantly more of the recent blood samples contained chemical signals that bears had been infected with one of five viruses, bacteria or parasites.Wildlife biologist Karyn Rode and her colleagues collected blood samples from wild bears to monitor the animals' health The study covered three decades, Dr Rode said, “when there had been a substantial loss of sea ice and there’s been increased land use in ".
"Bears in general are pretty robust to disease," explained Dr Rode. "It's not typically been known to affect bear population, but I think what it just highlights is that things are changing."There are about 26,000 polar bears left in the world, with the majority in Canada. Populations are also found in the US, Russia, Greenland and Norway
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Climate change anxiety is pushing Americans toward collective climate actionNew research reveals that while climate anxiety drives many Americans to take action on climate change, those with severe distress may struggle to engage, highlighting the need for mental health support in the fight against environmental threats.
Read more »
Republicans Weaponize Youth Climate Anxiety Amidst Growing Global CrisisClimate activists marched in New York City as Republicans double down on climate change denial, seeking to discredit and suppress climate education and advocacy programs.
Read more »
Warm embrace of CHIPS Act cash envelopes Polar SemiconductorMinnow of among government funded whales to double production capacity
Read more »
Lancashire braces for sharp temperature drop as 'brutal' polar blast sweeps UKLancashire residents are being warned to prepare for a significant chill from Wednesday, October 2nd, as temperatures plummet following a week of heavy rain. While the region won't see snow in the near future, a 'brutal' polar blast is forecast to bring harsher winter weather across much of the UK.
Read more »
Exact date Lancashire temperatures could plunge to 0C as UK set for snowThe UK is bracing for a 'brutal' snow vortex as a polar blast sweeps the nation
Read more »
Aberystwyth railway celebrates 20 years of the Polar ExpressThe Vale of Rheidol Railway is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of the famous Polar Express film with a special Christmas train ride. The experience features a full immersive theatrical performance with singing and dancing, hot chocolate and cookies, and encourages guests to wear pyjamas and dressing gowns.
Read more »