Weather conditions and nonhuman animals

Abstract

Weather conditions, particularly temperature, significantly impact the survival and well-being of wild animals. Fluctuations can cause mass mortality, especially among poikilothermic animals. While some animals can tolerate suboptimal temperatures, they may experience discomfort and weakened immune systems. Many species colonize areas with initially favorable conditions, only to suffer and die when conditions change, creating a cycle of colonization and death within meta-populations. Temperature changes pose substantial challenges: heat waves can cause dehydration and death, while cold weather is a major mortality factor, particularly for non-hibernating species like deer. Hibernating animals face risks of disease and starvation, while insects and birds are susceptible to freezing and injuries. Poikilothermic animals are highly vulnerable to rapid temperature changes, with marine species facing heat stress, and freshwater inhabitants, especially young turtles, at risk of cold stunning. Other weather conditions such as humidity, drought, snow, flooding, and strong winds compound these challenges, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities to disease, predation, and limited resources. – AI-generated abstract.