Ordinarily I would not cite this source but even a 'blind pig finds an acorn now and then:' Source: U.S. health officials brace for spike in West Nile cases – USATODAY.com I've long been aware of the impact for northern migration of warm weather critters. Here is one of the more credible sources of popular news: Source: Climate change: Species climbing higher and migrating north, study says - CSMonitor.com Using critters as a historical temperature analog is risky when a single species is used. A single gene mutation and all bets are off but this is mitigated by using multiple species. A genetic change increasing the temperature range is unlikely to happen concurrently across multiple species. Still, we can thank Lysenko who proved crop species have maximum temperature ranges . . . and filled a lot of graves. Bob Wilson
FWIW West Nile Virus cases have jumped in the USA with about half of them in Texas. The CDC thinks it will spike in August to September and then drop off as temperatures drop. Biologist are already connecting the trend toward increase global temperatures with a shift in animal habitat and migratory behavior, e.g. fish, whales, sharks, seals, birds, and polar bears. As climate changes become more or less permanent expect changes in the fauna.
Lysenko did that? "Even a blind pig..." But seriously, the ecological literature presents many examples of plants and animals that are migrating rapidly, others slowly. etc. It really is the flavor of the month, research wise. But this is a WNV thread so I hope it fills up with new information about that. After the Dallas spraying there has not been much mention in the media that I watch. Virus found in all states except Vermont (per wiki) which makes me think that the Vermonters are just not looking hard enough If you encounter a dead bird, no touchee...
