Report warns of climate threat to Minn. big game
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
By STEVE KARNOWSKI
Associated Press
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Conservationists warn that climate change threatens big game animals that call Minnesota home -- from moose to deer to bears.
A new report from the National Wildlife Federation says climate change is already having significant impacts on big game and habitat across the country.
The study's author, Doug Inkley, says Minnesota's moose are the "poster child" of how climate change is affecting big game. The moose population in northwestern Minnesota has nearly died out while it has fallen precipitously in the northeast part of the state.
Inkley and Leslie McInenly, big game program leader with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, say even highly adaptable species including deer and bears are at risk. They cite the threats from diseases, drought and habitat changes that a warmer climate could bring.
Support Local News
When breaking news happens, MPR News provides the context you need. Help us meet the significant demands of these newsgathering efforts.