Wildlife

Wild Animal Thermal Stress

Climate-driven temperature increases cause thermal stress in wild animals, affecting survival, reproduction and welfare.

Key Facts

Many species have narrow thermal tolerance ranges that are being exceeded more frequently
Heat waves cause direct mortality events in birds, mammals and reptiles
Behavioral thermoregulation limits time available for foraging and reproduction
Some species are adapting through range shifts or microhabitat use but others cannot keep pace

Welfare Considerations

Individual wild animals experiencing thermal stress suffer a range of negative states — panting, seeking shade, reduced activity, heat exhaustion and in extremes, rapid death. The suffering of heat waves is real at the individual level, not just at the population level. Climate-driven temperature increases are progressively reducing thermal welfare margins for many species, making this a major emerging animal welfare issue.

What You Can Do

Support strong climate policy action to limit warming
Provide water sources for wildlife in gardens and yards
Support habitat connectivity that allows animals to seek cooler conditions
Donate to climate-vulnerability research for wildlife