Creature Corner

No marine species remains unaffected by human intervention, and the same holds true for whales. Though commercial whaling for the most part is no longer in practice, its impact on whale populations can still be seen today.

Studies have reported polar bear hunting grounds are receding at a rapid rate, increasing polar cub mortality rates and forcing mature animals to the shores before they’ve caught enough food to last them through hibernation.

Seven species of sea turtles exist with six species found within the United States waters. Sea turtles occupy all the world’s oceans, except the Artic, and some species swim throughout multiple oceans.

Outside of commercial hunting, threats to seals remain. Each year thousands are caught in fishing nets and drown. Pollution, climate change, and loss of habitat due to the development of coastal areas also place stress on the survival of seals.

To protect emperor penguins, we must take steps right now to combat the growing threats they face. We need to change the way we fish, and do everything in our power to curb pollution and global warming.

As residents of coral reefs, one of the chief threats to octopuses is habitat destruction. The octopus is also preyed upon by other animals that are higher up on the foodchain, such as sharks and lionfish as well as eels.

The current greatest threat to seagulls is the loss of coastal habitat. Most seagulls nest in coastal areas and are losing more and more nesting grounds each year to human development. Currently, the Audouin’s gull and relict gull are listed as endangered on the United Stated Endangered Species List.

Few creatures pose a threat to jellyfish because few are able to penetrate the stinging tentacles. Predators that are impervious to a jelly’s sting include sea turtles, crabs, and some fish.