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Global Warming Will Mean More Polar Bear Attacks on Humans

Tack this onto a growing list of issues that could be pegged to climate change

By Ian Servantes July 17, 2017

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Climate change is, of course, a scientific reality supported by the vast, vast majority of scientists. Its consequences will include the survival of many species of plants and animals, the integrity of numerous coastal cities, and ultimately, the hopes for the human race to continue. But if that weren’t enough reason to worry, you should consider something else: bear attacks.

According to New Scientist, polar bear attacks are set to rise as Earth becomes warmer. As the bears spend more and more time on land and have a greater difficulty feeding themselves, they’ll move into more areas populated by humans. Usually, there are only eight or nine polar bear attacks on humans per decade. But from 2010 to 2014 alone, there have been 15 such incidents.

Todd Atwood is wildlife biologist at the US Geological Survey who worked with a team to examine 150 years of records on bear attacks in the US, Canada, Greenland, Russia, and Norway. Where available, they also looked at the condition of the bears involved in the attacks. 61 percent of them were in below average condition because they have less time on ice to prey upon seals. These conditions have created what Atwood calls a “perfect storm” for increased attacks on humans.

Great. Now we have to worry about the sea swallowing up incredible cities like New York and the unleashing of what Stephen Colbert calls “godless killing machines.”

Tags: global warming news