Warm-water fish like bluegill, crappie and catfish may actually benefit from a temperature increase. Largemouth bass, especially the Florida strain so commonly stocked into private ponds, could also benefit.

But if that happens, no one can be sure how it might throw other things out of kilter within the fragile ecosystem.

Then there are the potential effects on hunting.

Many waterfowl hunters will gasp to know that wintering duck populations in Tennessee are expected to decline due to temperature increases and lower reproductive success on the breeding grounds across the northern United States and Canada.

That could have a negative impact on waterfowl hunting in Tennessee and could cost the state millions of dollars in revenue from hunting licenses and the sale of hunting products.

Outdoor recreation also accounts for 67,000 jobs across the state -- many of which could be in jeopardy.

The effects of higher climates may already be evident on the West Tennessee landscape with a small number of black-bellied whistling ducks now nesting in the Memphis area. These ducks have nested primarily in Louisiana in the past, but wildlife biologists believe they are being forced farther north by rising coastal climates.

"That's something we just never saw in the past," Wathen said. "It could certainly be another sign that things are changing."

Other critters

Tennessee's status as one of the country's last great aquatic strongholds could also be threatened if temperatures continue to rise.

The state has 77 species of amphibians, including 21 species of frogs. That list includes the green tree frog, which is known for its bright green skin color, and the barking tree frog, which is noisy and often mistaken for a barking dog.

Increased winter climates could aid the spread of exotic species like the red imported fire ant and threaten the status of those native amphibians.

Mammals affected could include the northern flying squirrel and the red squirrel, both of which prefer cool, humid habitats at high elevations.

Cave dwellers like bats that prefer cooler climates might also take a hit.

Sadly, there is little the average person can do to offset the changes.

Most of the work must be done by politicians.

"There are certain things that need to happen on a Congressional level," Wathen said. "Some of those things are in the works, but it's a very slow process."

SEE THE REPORT

To view the complete report titled "Climate Changes and Potential Impacts to Wildlife in Tennessee," visit tnwildlife.org.

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