Cows and chickens ‘at risk’ from climate change

A study shows that dairy cows and chickens are the domestic animals at risk from the impacts of climate change—while African elephants, bats, zebrafish, Stony creek frogs and koalas were singled out as wildlife at risk.

Cows and chickens ‘at risk’ from climate change. Photo: Zoe Askew/Unsplash

“Resource-poor regions may not have adequate support mechanisms to alleviate the impacts of factors such as heat stress and massive droughts,” Edward Narayan, lead author and senior lecturer, School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability at the University of Queensland, Australia, told.

“Animals may not receive appropriate food, water and resources [which] will lead to cascading effects on food availability, shortages and food insecurity.

The scientists said heat stress on dairy cows resulted in a 35 per cent reduction in milk production—as it significantly impacted lactation, immune functionality, and calf health.

Under the review, chickens subjected to hot conditions had a lower quality of life and lower meat quality.

The welfare of birds, especially chickens under warmer conditions, was of great concern since they do not have the capacity to regulate heat due to a lack of sweat glands.

“Heat stress, brought on by combinations of temperature and relative humidity, can have huge effects on animal productivity, reducing the amount of milk, meat or eggs produced, with knock-on effects on prices of these products for consumers and for the food security of small-scale producers,” Philip Thornton, from the School of Geosciences at the University of Edinburgh, UK, told. (SciDev.Net)

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Brazil sends first research expedition to Arctic

Brazil’s first scientific expedition to the Arctic aims to explore the biodiversity of one of the planet’s coldest territories, learn more about its ecological importance and its role in global climate change, and contribute to its preservation.

"Safe seats" will be tested in Parisian transport

Faced with sexist and sexual violence, the Paris Transport Authority will set up "safe places" next September to offer shelter to victims of harassment and assault.

China’s Next-Generation Crewed Spacecraft May Be Launched in 2027

China's next-generation crewed spacecraft, which can transport up to seven astronauts, may fly for the first time between 2027 and 2028.

7.2 magnitude earthquake hits Alaska

A 7.2-magnitude earthquake triggered a brief tsunami warning in southern Alaska, but the warning was lifted about an hour later.

Global temperatures reaching new highs

Scientists at the University of Maine, United States, said the global average temperature reached a record 63°F (17.2°C).

Birds and honey badgers could be cooperating to steal from bees

The honeyguide bird loves beeswax, but needs help breaking open bees’ nests to get it. So it shows a honey badger the way to the nest, who rips it open and together they share the rewards.