MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The 2023 summer season in the UP has already seen record-breaking temperatures like in late May, which can cause disruptions in animal eating patterns.
Species such as moose, although more active in the winter time, rely on our naturally cold environment to keep their weight.
DNR Wildlife Biologist Brian Roell said although Lake Superior’s cold drifts help moderate migration patterns, the warm temperatures could still affect the wildlife population.
“In the Upper Peninsula– whatever you want to call the cause of the climate change– but it is definitely warmer than it was years ago. Moose have to eat all the time, and so if they’re having to go seek shade to get out of the heat, that’s less time they can forage, that’s less nutrient intake,” said Roell.
Roell said some bird species now have the ability to migrate this far north, and because of the warmer temperatures, the U.P. has become a more survivable environment.
