Monarch Butterfly Migration Could Collapse, Scientists Warn

EcoWatch

PinP photo.

The yearly count of monarch butterflies overwintering in Mexico, released Monday, shows a decrease from last year's count and confirms the iconic orange and black butterfly is still very much at risk.  Story here.

Wetter summers in warming climate bring disease and crop-failure risks

THE UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Warmer, wetter summers could produce unexpected impacts, such as disease outbreaks and crop failures. More here.

Thawing permafrost causing the 'browning' of northern lakes

Science Daily

As the ice melts, the organic carbon found in permafrost is being released once again after ages of confinement in the soil. It is making its way into Arctic and subarctic lakes and ponds, and modifying their composition. More here.

Arctic Lake. A US Fish & Wildlife photo.

Asia’s hunger for sand takes a toll on endangered species

Science

Across Asia, rampant extraction of sand for construction is eroding coastlines and scouring waterways. More here.

The terrifying phenomenon that is pushing species towards extinction

The Guardian

Scientists are alarmed by a rise in mass mortality events – when species die in their thousands. Is it all down to climate change? More here.

Scientists Haven't Seen a Single North Atlantic Right Whale Calf This Season

EcoWatch

The North Atlantic right whale is already one of the most endangered whales, with fewer than 450 of the iconic marine mammals left on the planet. More here.

A right whale with calf.
Photo by NOAA.