Study Warns 36% of Land Animal Habitats Could Face Extreme Climate Events by 2085

A global study published in May 2026 warns that extreme weather events could threaten 36% of terrestrial vertebrate habitats by the year 2085. Terrestrial vertebrates are land animals with a backbone, such as mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The research studied thousands of species across many ecosystems. It found that rising temperatures, heatwaves, wildfires, droughts and floods will increasingly happen together, sharply raising the risk to wildlife. Regions such as the Amazon Basin, Africa and Southeast Asia were found to be especially vulnerable, while amphibians face the highest level of exposure.

The findings add to the global call for urgent climate action and stronger biodiversity conservation. For India, which is one of the world’s mega-biodiverse countries, such warnings underline the importance of protecting forests, wetlands and wildlife habitats.

For exam aspirants, remember the headline figure of 36% by 2085 and that amphibians are the most exposed group.