Overview

• A satellite survey of 16 colonies spanning 2.8 million square kilometres in Northwest Antarctica reveals a 22% population loss since 2009.
• The observed decline surpasses climate model forecasts, indicating additional stressors beyond sea ice reduction.
• Antarctic sea ice has decreased by 1.5 million square kilometres over the past 30 years, undermining critical breeding platforms.
• Researchers cite altered storm and snowfall patterns, heightened competition for food and increased predator access after early ice breakup as likely contributors.
• Scientists warn that without prompt stabilization of greenhouse gas emissions, emperor penguins could vanish by the end of this century.