Global warming is increasingly disrupting the natural environment and its communities, including those of many species of animals such as the harp seal. Unfortunately, this particular species is particularly vulnerable to the various effects of climate change, and has to face a host of new and concerning challenges.
A global warming-induced rise in sea temperatures has resulted in a loss of the harp seal’s habitat and food source. As a result of their habitat being disrupted, the seal population has seen a dramatic decline. Scientists have observed a decrease in their aquatic productivity, which is critical for their survival. As well as this, rising sea levels have created barriers for harp seals to reach their breeding grounds. The lack of accessibility of these areas has also led to a decrease in their reproductive success.
Moreover, an increase in marine debris has caused an additional problem for the harp seals. Plastic pollution poses a risk to these species due to the ingestion of the debris they accumulate while out in the oceans. They may also become entangled when they get caught in plastic pieces. It is feared that plastic pollution will have a severe effect on their population growth rate, as well as their ability to survive in the oceans.
Climate change has also caused an increase in ocean acidification, which adversely affects the availability of food for the harp seals. The acidic waters mean that the seal’s prey is less available, leading to a reduction in their caloric intake and overall health. As a result of this, the mortality rate of the species is increasing. Scientists predict that a two-degree (Celsius) increase in global temperatures could have devastating effects on the harp seal population, resulting in a further 15-20% reduction over the next century.
In addition to this, research indicates that the noise levels caused by man-made activities (such as shipping, oil and gas extraction, and other underwater activities) is impeding the ability of the harp seals for communication and hunting. The disruption to their natural behaviours has caused the seals to become disoriented, resulting in decreased success rate. Rising temperatures are also believed to increase their stress levels, creating a further threat to the species.
Although the future looks bleak, hope is still present. Conservationists and researchers are now using various tools and strategies to help increase the population of the harp seals and to protect them from the dangers of global warming. Some strategies being used include the establishment of marine protected areas, the educations of local communities on the importance of conservation, and research and mapping of the species’ habitats. All of these initiatives support the harp seal population and its environment, ultimately providing valuable resources for future generations. This shows that we can still make a difference, and encourages us to act quickly in order to make the necessary changes to help protect the species.
It is essential that we take immediate action to combat global warming and protect the environment, so that species like the harp seal can continue to thrive in our fast-changing planet. We have a moral obligation to ensure that our planet remains safe and healthy, and the preservation of wild species like the harp seal is an essential part of this obligation. Let us use this opportunity to learn from our mistakes and take action on global warming, so the harp seal species can enjoy the same future that we do.
