Scientists studying the dates on which red-winged blackbirds arrive in northern Michigan found that warming temperatures have dramatically altered the birds' migration. They now arrive 21 days earlier than they did in 1960. The timing of migrations is critical to the survival of numerous bird species. Beginning their journey too early or late may mean that birds miss the food sources they need to survive. Threatened aquatic species like manatees could also suffer.
Manatees depend on grass beds in shallow coastal zones for food and habitat.
As sea levels rise, this habitat will disappear, as will coastal marshes and wetlands worldwide. Key wildlife habitats like the Florida Everglades and Chesapeake Bay will likely be flooded out of existence. Warmer water temperatures may also spur the growth of deadly red tides, increasing the danger not only to manatees and other aquatic mammals, but to humans as well.