Emperor Penguins Declared Endangered
Scientists warn that without significant global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the majority of Emperor penguin colonies could face extinction by the end of the century.
The loss of stable sea ice is critical, as the birds rely on it for breeding, raising their chicks, and molting.
The Antarctic fur seal is also facing new threats from warming ocean temperatures and changes in the availability of its primary food sources.
This new classification is expected to trigger increased international protections and funding for research in the region.
Conservationists are calling for an immediate expansion of marine protected areas in the Antarctic to give these iconic species a chance at survival.