Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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Our Emperor Penguin. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Moved Emperor Penguin's status from 'Near Threatened' to 'Endangered.' This change is caused by catastrophic sea ice loss, Since 2016, with 2026 data showing breeding sites are melting rapidly. The warming temperatures are causing penguins to breed earlier. There was total reproductive loss in 2022 in four out of five Breeding sites in the Bellingshausen Sea area. If greenhouse gas emissions are not drastically reduced, Scientists predict a 50% population decline in the next 50 years, And by 2100, 90% of Emperor Penguin colonies Are projected to be 'quasi-extinct,' Meaning that low population-recovery is considered highly unlikely. These threats stem from a lack of 'fast ice,' or stable breeding grounds, And unpredictable sea ice patterns which break up Before chicks develop waterproof feathers. Premature sea ice disappearance causes chicks to drown or freeze. Urgent action is called for by the World Wildlife Fund to designate them As specially protected species under the Antarctic Treaty. If little is done, we will soon witness many such tragedies. Emperor penguin chicks being socialized by male parents at Auster rookery Photo: Gary Miller Frank Maurer 14 April 2026 1735 Hours.