Winter Sports 'Stress Wildlife'
by: Carer
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Word Count: 168
Winter sports such as snowboarding, off-piste skiing and trekking are putting Alpine wildlife under stress, scientists have concluded.
Researchers found that in areas of the Alps heavily used for sports, black grouse produced large amounts of a hormone indicating stress.
Writing in the Royal Society's journal Proceedings B, they say these sports represent a new threat to wildlife.
Climatic change is also affecting habitat for these birds.
During the winter, they make burrows, or "igloos", in the snow. They come out twice each day to feed, then make a new igloo in which to hide.
Rising winter temperatures are reducing the availability of these hiding places on lower slopes, while this new study, by scientists based in Switzerland and Austria, suggests the growing popularity of "extreme" winter sports is affecting their chances higher up the slopes.
Full Story:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/6424489.stm
Well, I doubt that this report will make any difference to those
who enjoy their sport. Why should they let a few birds/animals spoil their fun.
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Best wishes & God Bless, Carer
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