Climate change and extreme weather events are drastically reshaping our world, and one of the most striking consequences is the alteration of animal migration patterns. Over half of all species are currently on the move, seeking more suitable environments as their traditional habitats become increasingly inhospitable. This mass movement includes a diverse range of species, from large mammals like moose and bears to smaller creatures such as frogs and squirrels.
The Great Migration Shift
Traditionally, many animal species migrate to find food, breeding grounds, or more favourable climates as seasons change. However, the unprecedented warming of our planet is pushing these migrations into overdrive. The global average temperature reached a new record high in September 2023, with similar trends seen in the preceding months. These rising temperatures are forcing animals to move northwards or to higher altitudes, where the climate is cooler.
Research from the University of Southern California (USC) indicates that around half of all species are currently migrating, driven by the urgent need to escape heat stress and find sustainable habitats. For example, the pika, a small mammal related to rabbits, cannot tolerate temperatures above 25.6°C and is being driven to cooler, higher altitudes. The challenge for many species is their “dispersal rate” – the speed at which they can move. Some species, like certain amphibians or insects, are less mobile and thus more vulnerable to extinction as they fail to reach new habitats quickly enough.
Examples from Around the World
The impact of climate change on animal migration can be seen globally. In Africa, elephants are moving across national borders in search of food and water. Overpopulation in some national parks and erratic rainfall patterns are making it difficult for these large animals to survive in their traditional habitats. This has led to significant migrations from Zimbabwe to Botswana, highlighting the international nature of these ecological challenges.
In the United Kingdom, changes in bird populations are a clear indicator of shifting migration patterns. Species such as the cuckoo, which traditionally migrates from the UK to Africa, are finding the journey increasingly perilous due to changing weather patterns and food availability. Meanwhile, some birds, like the Cetti’s warbler, are extending their range further into Europe, while non-native species such as the European bee-eater are establishing themselves in the UK for the first time.
In North America, mule deer in the Wyoming desert are adapting to inconsistent spring signals by adjusting their migration timing. This adaptability provides a glimmer of hope that some species may be able to cope with the changing climate.
The Path Forward
The changes in animal migration patterns underscore the urgent need to address the climate crisis. Biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse are identified as major risks in the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Global Risks Report. While efforts such as the COP15 UN Biodiversity Conference, which aims to protect 30% of Earth's nature by 2030, are steps in the right direction, more action is needed.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) emphasises that reducing global temperatures is crucial. There is a growing momentum behind renewable energy and energy efficiency, which are critical to mitigating climate change. The upcoming COP28 climate summit in Dubai represents a crucial opportunity for the international community to commit to stronger environmental protections and a sustainable future.
The migration of animals due to climate change is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of life on Earth. As species move to survive, they signal a broader ecological imbalance that threatens all life, including humans. Urgent and decisive action is required to mitigate these impacts and preserve the planet’s biodiversity for future generations.