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The Ocean Is Running Out of Fish. Here's the Alarming Math.

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Plastic is everywhere: In your home, your office, your school - and your ocean. Among the top 10 kinds of trash picked up during the 2017 International Coastal Cleanup were food wrappers, beverage bottles, grocery bags, straws, and take out containers, all made of plastic. How did it all get there? Why is it a problem? What can we do?

The problem with plastic

While it's tough to say exactly how much plastic is in the ocean, scientists think about 8 million metric tons of plastic entered the ocean in 2010. That's the weight of nearly 90 aircraft carriers, and the problem continues to grow.

These plastics come in many different forms. Just think about all the plastic items you use daily: the toothbrush you grab first thing in the morning, the container your lunch comes in, or the bottle you drink water from after your workout.

All these things get used and, eventually, thrown out. Many plastic products are single-use items that are designed to be thrown out, like water bottles or take out containers. These are used and discarded quickly. If this waste isn't properly disposed of or managed, it can end up in the ocean.

Unlike some other kinds of waste, plastic doesn't decompose. That means plastic can stick around indefinitely, wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems. Some plastics float once they enter the ocean, though not all do. As the plastic is tossed around, much of it breaks into tiny pieces, called microplastics.

The first thing that comes to mind for many people when they think of microplastics are the small beads found in some soaps and other personal care products. But microplastics also include bits of what were once larger items.

Microfibers, shed from synthetic clothing or fishing nets, are another problematic form of microplastic. These fibers, beads, and microplastic fragments can all absorb harmful pollutants like pesticides, dyes, and flame retardants, only to later release them in the ocean.

What can you do?

There are many ways to keep plastic out of the ocean! Here are two strategies:

Reduce plastic use.
Think about all the plastic items you use every day. Can you count them all? Look around you. How many plastic things can you see? Being more aware of how and why you use the plastics that you do is the first step to reducing plastic use. Commit to changing your habits by reducing your use of disposable and single-use plastic items, reusing items and/or recycling them.

Participate in a cleanup.
Volunteer to pick up marine litter in your local community. Find a cleanup near you!

NOAA's Marine Debris Program (MDP) works to understand how plastics - and other marine debris - get into our ocean, how they can be removed, and how they can be kept from polluting our marine environment in the future.

Infographic text:

Commonly found Plastics include cigarette butts, food wrappers, beverage bottles, straws, cups and plates, bottle caps, and single-use bags.

How to help? Reduce, reuse, recycle. Dispose of waste properly no matter where you are. Get involved and participate in local cleanups in your area. Remember that our land and sea are connected.
Impacts include:

Entanglement: Marine life can get caught and killed in derelict fishing nets and other plastic debris.

Ingestion: Animals can easily mistake plastic debris for food.

Sources include:

Boats/nets: Fishing gear can become marine debris when it is lost or abandoned.

Littering: Intentional littering or improper disposal of trash can cause marine debris.

Debris can enter the water via:

Rain and winds: Rain and wind can sweep debris into nearby waterbodies.

Streams and storm drains: Streams and storm drains can carry debris directly into the ocean or Great Lakes.

Microplastics are small plastics less that 5mm. They can come from large plastics breaking down, or can be produced as small plastics such as microbeads, which can be found in products such as toothpaste and face wash.

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national oceanic and atmospheric administration

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Plastic is everywhere: In your home, your office, your school - and your ocean. Among the top 10 kinds of trash picked up during the 2017 International Coastal Cleanup were food wrappers, beverage bottles, grocery bags, straws, and take out containers, all made of plastic.

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International Wolf Center | Teaching the World about Wolves.

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Are wolves endangered? | International Wolf Center

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Are gray wolves endangered in the United States? Should they be on the Endangered Species Act? What do opponents of that think? This post gives those answers.

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The blue skies and blooming flowers of spring also bring with them the buzzing of bees, which emerge from their hives in search of pollen. While small in size, their contributions to our ecosystems are momentous; put simply, life on Earth as it is today would not exist without bees.

Over millions of years, bees have evolved to help them pollinate flowers, even gaining little pollen pouches to carry larger loads; flowers have also evolved to attract bees and other pollinators and largely depend on them for reproduction.

Which is why their disappearance is worrying: over the past century, bee populations have plummeted and some have even been labelled as endangered, leaving their ecosystems - and our food chains - at risk of collapse.

Why are bees endangered?

Bees are at risk of extinction largely due to human activities: large-scale changes in land use, industrialised agricultural practices, like monocultures, and the detrimental use of pesticides have all contributed to destroying their habitats and reducing their available food sources. Globalisation has also facilitated the transmission of parasites and other invasive species that prey on bees, like the Asian hornet, which can decimate entire hives in hours.

Global warming also plays a large role in the endangerment of the bee population. Rising temperatures, increased flooding, droughts and changes in blooming seasons of flowering plants all affect the bees' ecosystems, reducing their suitability to the environment and threatening their survival.

Which bees are at risk of extinction?

While most species of bees have seen wide-scale population loss over the past 300 years, and 40 percent of invertebrate pollinator species are facing extinction, eight species of bees have officially been declared as endangered.

Seven of the eight are species of the Hawaiian yellow-faced bee, which are at risk due to the threat from non-native species of ants that feed on the eggs, as well as from habitat destruction.

The rusty patched bumblebee ( Bombus affinis) is also listed as an endangered species, and faces risk of extinction, most likely due to exposure to pesticides and habitat loss from to urbanisation. The population of the rusty patched bumblebee, which is endemic to North America, has decreased to only 0.1 percent of its historic levels.

Fortunately, not all bees are endangered, although all face serious population decline due to human activity and climate change.

Why are bees important?

Bees are one of the most efficient and prevalent pollinators. They have a mutualistic symbiotic relationship with flowers and other plants, meaning that both the plant and bee benefit from their interaction: the bees pollinate the plants, spreading the pollen (which they catch on their tiny hairs) from flower to flower, therefore helping the plants reproduce; in exchange, the bees also eat the pollen, which is a critical component of their diets. The evolution of many flowers has largely been tailored around increasing their attractiveness to bees, favouring flowers who are in the colour spectrum that bees can see (ultraviolet rather than red-hued) and that release a strong, sweet smell when their pollen is ready to take.

However, bees pollinate more than just flowers - many of our favourite fruits and vegetables require the help of bees to pollinate them. From tomatoes, squash, cucumbers and eggplants to nuts, seeds and even cotton. It is estimated that about 80 percent of pollination of flowering plants uses the help of pollinators like bees to reproduce. Bees are critical for the stability of our food systems, supporting over 35 percent of global agricultural land - which is why their disappearance is worrying for humans.

What would happen if bees went extinct?

The ecological issue of the possible extinction of the bees is also a humanitarian issue, as the stability of human populations largely depends on the stability of bee populations. Considering the crucial role of bees' pollination activities in supporting our agricultural systems, their disappearance would likely result in a food crisis for humanity. Supplies of foods such as apples, berries, avocados, coffee and onions would fall drastically since they require the help of pollinators to reproduce. With plummeting supplies, the prices of these foods would skyrocket, making them rare and inaccessible to most people.

The decimation of these plants would have secondary effects on animals other than humans that also rely on them for food sources, resulting in larger biodiversity loss. In order to help us meet the food demand for the world's rising human population, and achieve SDG 2, we must actively protect and foster the populations of bees and other pollinators.

How can we help the bees?

Just as flowers and bees provide mutually beneficial exchanges, humans - all of whom benefit from bees' pollinating activities - should help foster the health of bees.

Banning dangerous pesticides: The European Food Safety Committee (EFSA) has stated that three major pesticides pose a "high acute risk" to bee species and have been found in dangerous levels within their hives. Governments must ensure that approved pesticides are not harmful to pollinator populations, which in the long-run will help increase crop yield and promote sustainable farming.

Prevent and reverse habitat loss: Without adequate environments for bees to build homes and have plentiful food sources, their populations will continue to decline. Preventing deforestation can therefore also prevent bee extinction and, as a side effect, promote higher crop yields.

Buy organic produce: Organic produce is grown without the use of pesticides and therefore does not have chemicals that can kill bees.

Plant flowers and plants that bees pollinate: If you have a garden, you can plant certain plants that attract bees and other pollinators. Make sure to plant using organic seeds and avoid using fungicides or pesticides.

Buy local honey: Local honey producers support bee populations, but need income to support their farms and themselves. Buying locally will help small-scale farmers survive, while also helping the biodiversity of plants and the bee communities in your area.

Do not kill bee hives: While many people are afraid of bees, it is important to understand that they are mostly harmless unless provoked. In fact, not all bees sting - some species do not possess stinging abilities, and male bees do not sting at all. Even female bees that do sting will only sting if directly threatened or attacked. If you don't feel comfortable with bees around, you can contact a local beekeeper association that will relocate the bees to a new home.

Concluding thoughts

On World Bee Day (20 May), we recognise the importance of these beautiful and small creatures, whose activities help preserve and perpetuate life on Earth. The decimation of their populations should remind us of the destabilising nature of human activity, which is possible to prevent and correct. Our perspectives of our environments and our food chains must shift from focusing solely on the plants we eat to including the other organisms that support plants' lives - and by extension, our lives as well.
Image by Bianca Ackermann

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Why are bees endangered and what happens if they go extinct? | FairPlanet

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While small in size, their contributions to our ecosystems are momentous; put simply, life on Earth as it is today would not exist without bees.

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Federal Status: Endangered Host plant: Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis) ​ Historical Range: Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania,...

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World of Endangered Butterflies: Why They Need Our Help"

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How Does Light Pollution Affect Animals? - The Environmental Literacy Council

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How Does Light Pollution Affect Animals? Light pollution, the excessive and misdirected artificial light in the night environment, is a […]

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Why Light Pollution is a Bigger Problem Than You Think

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But only in limited ways because our brains are so fundamentally different

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Our pets bring boundless joy into our lives, but just like us, they can experience boredom and stress. As pet owners, it’s essential to recognize the signs that our furry companions may be fe…

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Have you ever wondered what happens when animals get stuck in a rut, just like humans experience boredom? It's a fascinating topic that delves into the psychological and behavioral aspects of our furry, feathered, and scaled friends. In this article, we're going to explore what happens when animals get stuck, the signs to look out for, and how we can help them overcome it.

Understanding Animal Boredom

First things first, let's define what we mean by 'stuck' or boredom in animals. Unlike humans, animals can't tell us when they're feeling unstimulated or uninterested. But, they do exhibit certain behaviors that can clue us in. Animal boredom typically manifests as a lack of engagement with their environment, repetitive behaviors, or even increased aggression.

To really grasp this concept, it's essential to understand that animals, like humans, have natural instincts and needs that require fulfillment. When these needs aren't met, it can lead to frustration, stress, and ultimately, boredom. For instance, a dog that's left alone all day with no toys or interaction might start chewing on shoes or exhibiting other destructive behaviors. It's not out of spite, but rather a sign that they're stuck with nothing to do.

Signs of Boredom in Animals

So, how can you tell if an animal is bored? There are several signs to look out for, though they can vary depending on the species. Here are a few general indicators:

Lethargy: The animal might seem tired or uninterested in things that usually excite them.

Repetitive Behaviors: Pacing, excessive grooming, or other repetitive actions can indicate boredom.

Destructive Behaviors: Chewing, scratching, or other destructive behaviors can be a sign that an animal is looking for stimulation.

Changes in Appetite: Some animals might eat more or less when they're bored.

Increased Aggression: Frustration from boredom can sometimes manifest as aggression.

For example consider a parrot that's left in its cage all day with no toys or interaction. It might start plucking its feathers out of boredom, which is a clear sign that it's not getting the stimulation. It needs And I mean you literally can see it happening and it's kind of heartbreaking.

Boredom in Different Animal Species

Domestic Pets

Let's start with our domestic friends-dogs and cats. Dogs, being social creatures, need a lot of interaction and playtime. Without it, they can become bored, which often leads to barking, digging, or chewing. You know, the usual stuff that drives neighbors crazy. But seriously, it's not their fault; they're just trying to entertain themselves.

Cats, on the other hand, are a bit more independent, but they still need stimulation. A bored cat might sleep more than usual, groom excessively, or even become aggressive. I've seen cases where cats start knocking things off shelves just to get some kind of reaction from their owners. It's like they're saying, 'Hey, I'm here, and I'm bored!'

Birds

Birds, especially those kept as pets, can also experience boredom. In the wild, birds spend their days foraging, socializing, and exploring. But when kept in a cage, they don't have these opportunities. This can lead to feather plucking, excessive squawking, or even self-harm. It's really important to provide birds with toys, perches, and interaction to keep their minds active. My friend had a parrot that would literally scream for hours if left alone without any toys. It was a stark reminder of how intelligent these creatures are and how much they need stimulation.

Zoo Animals

Zoo animals are another group that can experience boredom. Despite the best efforts of zookeepers, it's hard to replicate the stimulation that animals get in the wild. This is where enrichment activities come in-things like puzzle feeders, climbing structures, or even scented objects can help keep animals engaged. I've seen videos of bears playing with giant ice blocks filled with fruit, and it's amazing to see how much they enjoy the mental challenge.

Farm Animals

Even farm animals can get bored. Pigs, for example, are highly intelligent and need a lot of mental stimulation. Without it, they can become aggressive or exhibit stereotypic behaviors like bar biting. Providing them with things like straw bedding to root around in or toys to play with can make a big difference.

The Importance of Enrichment

Enrichment is a crucial aspect of animal care that often gets overlooked. It's not just about providing food and shelter; it's about creating an environment that allows animals to express their natural behaviors. This can include anything from providing toys and puzzles to creating complex social structures.

For dogs, this might mean going on different walks each day, trying out new games, or even teaching them new tricks. Think about it like this: if you had to do the same thing every day with no variation, you'd get pretty bored too, right? The same goes for animals. Variety is the spice of life, after all.

How to Help a Bored Animal

Provide Stimulating Toys

One of the easiest ways to combat boredom is by providing stimulating toys. For dogs, this could be puzzle toys that dispense treats as they play. For cats, it might be a laser pointer or a climbing tree. Birds often enjoy foraging toys that mimic their natural feeding behaviors. The key is to find what your animal enjoys and switch up the toys regularly to keep things interesting.

Create a Stimulating Environment

The environment itself can be a source of enrichment. For example, adding platforms and hiding spots to a cat's area can encourage exploration and play. For birds, providing different types of perches and rotating their toys can keep their environment fresh and engaging.

Spend Quality Time Together

Spending quality time with your pet is another great way to combat boredom. This could be as simple as setting aside time each day to play with your dog or cat, or teaching your bird new tricks. Interaction is key, and it's amazing how much of a difference it can make.

Introduce New Experiences

Introducing new experiences can also help keep animals engaged. For dogs, this might mean visiting new parks or going on different walking routes. For cats, it could be as simple as providing new types of toys or creating a cat-friendly outdoor space. The idea is to provide novelty and variety to keep their minds active.

Real-Life Examples

Let me share a few real-life examples to illustrate these points. I had a friend who had a dog that would bark incessantly whenever left alone. It turns out, the dog was just bored. By providing puzzle toys and increasing playtime, the barking decreased significantly. It was like night and day.

Another example is a cat I knew that would constantly knock things off shelves. The owner thought the cat was just being naughty, but it turned out the cat was bored. By providing more interactive toys and spending more time playing with the cat, the behavior stopped. It's amazing how much of a difference a little stimulation can make.

But What About Wild Animals?

You might be wondering, 'What about wild animals? Do they get bored too?' It's a tough question to answer definitively, but it's likely that wild animals experience something akin to boredom when their natural behaviors are restricted. This is often seen in captive wild animals, like those in zoos or sanctuaries.

In the wild, animals have vast territories to explore and a variety of behaviors to express. But in captivity, those options are limited. That's why enrichment is so important for captive wild animals. It provides them with opportunities to express their natural behaviors and keeps their minds active.

The Ethical Implications

There are also ethical implications to consider when it comes to animal boredom. If we're keeping animals in environments that don't meet their psychological and behavioral needs, is that fair to them? It's a complex issue that doesn't have a one-size-fits-all answer.

For pet owners, it's about ensuring we're providing the best possible care for our animals. For zoos and sanctuaries, it's about continually striving to improve enrichment and welfare standards. And for farmers, it's about finding ways to provide more stimulating environments for their animals.

Conclusion

So, what have we learned? Animals can indeed get stuck in a rut, much like humans experience boredom. The signs can vary, but they often include lethargy, repetitive behaviors, and even increased aggression. The key to combating this is enrichment -providing stimulating toys, creating engaging environments, and introducing new experiences.

Remember, it's not just about providing food and shelter; it's about creating a life that allows animals to express their natural behaviors. So, if you think your pet might be bored, try switching up their toys, spending more quality time together, or introducing new experiences. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.

FAQ

How can I tell if my pet is bored?

Signs of boredom in pets can include lethargy, repetitive behaviors, destructive behaviors, changes in appetite, and increased aggression. If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to switch up your pet's routine or provide more enrichment.

What are some good toys for bored pets?

The best toys for bored pets are those that provide mental stimulation. For dogs, puzzle toys that dispense treats are a great option. For cats, interactive toys like laser pointers or climbing trees can help keep them engaged. Birds often enjoy foraging toys that mimic their natural feeding behaviors.

How can I provide enrichment for my pet?

Providing enrichment for your pet can be as simple as switching up their toys regularly, creating a stimulating environment, or introducing new experiences. Spending quality time together is also a great way to combat boredom.

Can wild animals get bored?

Wild animals can indeed experience something akin to boredom when their natural behaviors are restricted, such as in captivity. Providing enrichment is crucial for keeping their minds active and allowing them to express their natural behaviors.

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