Bird decline shows that climate change is more than just hot air

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-11/oup-bds111615.php

Public Release: 16-Nov-2015
Bird decline shows that climate change is more than just hot air
Oxford University Press

Scientists have long known that birds are feeling the heat due to climate change. However, a new study of a dozen affected species in the Western Cape suggests their decline is more complex than previously thought - and in some cases more serious.

According to the study, published today (Monday) in Conservation Physiology, by scientists from the Percy Fitzpatrick Institute at the University of Cape Town and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, there could be several reasons why birds are being negatively affected by man-made climate change.

They suggest that contrary to expectations the birds' heat tolerance - or lack thereof -- is not necessarily the main factor chasing species out of their preferred habitat. Other factors like changing fire and rainfall patterns, and new bird behaviour patterns could also be responsible for the decline, according to the study which includes some well-known species such as the Malachite Sunbird and the Familiar Chat.

Lead researcher Susie Cunningham says a better understanding of how climate change affects bird species could help develop conservation strategies to increase chances of survival:

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the study shows 'striking similarity' between bird declines and increases in average temperature, most notably in two bird species occupying cooler rangelands - the Cape Rockjumper and the Protea Seed-eater. Reporting rates of these two species dropped by 31 percent and 32 percent respectively in the study area during the period under review.

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