Global Warming Causing Species to Migrate

Global Warming is taking a toll on animals and plants across the world.  As it turns out, many species are fleeing north, according to a study published in the journal Science yesterday.  About 2,000 species are moving away from the equator at an average rate of more than 15 feet per day. 

Certain species are even moving up mountains to avoid the heat.  Their move keeps up with the pace of the climate change.  Most of the animals are from the Northern Hemisphere and include plants as well. 

A conservation biologist from the U.K., Wendy Foden of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, looks at the findings as "hopeful."  Foden looked at the species' migration as a good thing because "keeping track of climate change themselves" means they are able to adapt.  However, she was quick to point out that the species might not be able to keep up with the planet if there's too much climate change.

More on the species' rate of migration can be found at sciencemag.org.