Migrations in Motion
Data, Graphs, and Maps
Grades6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Biology
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by The Nature Conservancy
What it is
- This interactive map from The Nature Conservancy illustrates the possible migration movements of mammals, birds, and amphibians due to climate change.
- It takes into account the natural and human-made barriers that could prevent their migration to more suitable locations.
Teaching tips
Positives
- The interactive map has a key where additional information given.
- The "What Can We Do?" section lists ways that conservationists can maintain habitat connectivity to improve the ability of species to move to more suitable habitat.
Prerequisites
- The map data is currently only available for the Western Hemisphere.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Advanced students can be asked to brainstorm reasons why animals might follow the patterns identified.
- Students who need additional support can read the map key with teacher guidance and discuss the "What Can We Do" section with a partner.
- Other resources about the effects of climate change on animals include this news article, this NASA article, and this video.
From the scientist review
This data visualizes the pattern of migration of mammals, amphibians, and birds on a global scale. The model becomes unfit when it tries to represent the localized migration patterns of animals and species. However, students can explore to see the impact of climate change on animal migration. The resource is recommended for teaching.
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