Climate change is upsetting the balance – the balance in nature. When systems that have run smoothly on our Earth for hundreds and even thousands of years are facing an imbalance, nature deal with the challenges. Sometimes nature uses mutations, sometimes nature adapts to the changes. Animals and plants are ‘shapeshifting’ around the world, their limbs, beaks, migration patterns change, and plants alter their growths. Flowers, trees and shrubs that are flowering earlier and leaf fall that is delayed can have an effect on the whole ecosystem. Pollen, nectar, seeds and fruits are vital food resources for insects, birds and other wildlife. Flowers that appear too early can be hit by frost or cold weather and this might damage the harvest of fruit trees.
Protecting the Planet: Emperor of the Ice by Nicola Davies and illustrated by Catherine Rayner is a beautiful book with a serious and important message. It is a great introduction to climate change. Changing climate is making the Antarctic Ocean warmer, it is causing the ice to melt. The Emperor are perfectly adapted tot he harsh climate in the Antartic. But now the winds are getting stronger and the storms are fierce, which means that the ice is braking up. As the Earth gets warmer, there is a risk that the colonies with Emperor penguins could disappear. The Emperor penguins are now forced to search for new placers to raise their chicks – places where they can trust the ice.
The illustrations are exquisite and that makes the message even more heart piercing. Yet, it is important to talk to children about the changes in climate and how it affects not only us but also animals. Satellites can help scientists to monitor the colonies. I love the illustration with what the colony looks like from space. They are visible from space because they stand out with the black bodies against the snow and ice. This books invites children to explore and ponder. Warmly recommeded!
Biomimicry for Young Children 