New Zealand’s iconic wildlife—from flightless birds to ancient reptiles—is facing a climate-driven extinction emergency, a groundbreaking study warns. 🌍 Published in Science, the research analyzed 30 years of data and projects that 1 in 20 species globally could vanish if temperatures rise by 2.7°C. But for Aotearoa (New Zealand), the stakes are even higher.
🚨 Scientists describe the findings as \"sobering,\" pointing to the country’s unique biodiversity as critically vulnerable. \"We’re in the climate firing line,\" says Dr. Nic Rawlence, director of the University of Otago’s Palaeogenetics Lab. Amphibians, already declining worldwide, are at particular risk.
🌿 What’s driving the crisis? Human-induced climate change, habitat loss, and invasive species. Researchers urge immediate action, calling on New Zealand’s government to prioritize conservation policies. \"This isn’t just about saving kiwi birds—it’s about preserving ecosystems that define our planet,\" Rawlence emphasizes.
💡 Why should global youth care? Biodiversity collapse affects food chains, climate resilience, and cultural heritage. Think of it like a Netflix show losing its main characters—everything unravels. Time to hit pause on emissions? 🎬
