SVALBARD 78°12’57.6”N 15°45’18.8”E
It’s no secret that the Arctic is warming faster than the rest of the world. Studies by the Norwegian Polar Institute show that Svalbard is experiencing global warming at a rate seven times faster than the global average. It’s an alarming reality. Still, the frozen fjord is stunningly beautiful. The whole town is in awe, and both locals and tourists pause to admire this unique event. Every day, I prepare my camera and polar bear safety gear before heading out for hikes along the shoreline. Surrounded by shades of blue and turquoise, with the crisp air biting at my skin, it feels like I’m stepping into a world that could only exist in dreams. The sea ice provides an incredible foundation for wildlife stories to unfold. Each day, new bird species arrive, and I even spot playful walruses and seals. It’s clear that a healthy ice sheet means a healthy, diverse ecosystem.
“The vast white landscapes turn into an orchestra, where the tide sets the rhythm of the sea ice, and the wildlife sings along.”
As the sun now shines 24 hours a day, the sea ice begins to break, announcing the start of the melting season. The subtle sound of water flowing and sea ice crashing together fills the air, and with it comes a profound sense of renewal. The white landscapes slowly begin to reveal their hidden secrets, and the first signs of past summers are uncovered. Strong roots are emerging, and the vegetation is growing back, more vibrant than ever, paving the way for wildlife to thrive. Cliffs, shorelines, valleys, and glacier fronts all witness the miracle of life unfolding. The archipelago has become a nursery, teeming with life. Tiny baby birds are hatching, tiny arctic foxes are emerging from their dens, reindeer calves are grazing and growing strong, and polar bear cubs are exploring their kingdom under the guidance of their mothers. At the same time, the seascape welcomes back the majestic giants of the ocean—white-beaked dolphins, belugas, humpbacks, and even the awe-inspiring blue whales. “The colours that were paused during winter suddenly make a comeback. The mountains proudly display their own stories, in shades of green, grey, red, and gold.” Summer is at its peak: The moss is bright green, cotton grass sways with the wind, and the air is filled with the beautiful melodies of snow buntings. Every day in the archipelago is a celebration of nature, even in the smallest of moments. A trip to the grocery store becomes an adventure, as I cross paths with reindeer or watch flocks of barnacle geese with their goslings. I’m reminded of how privileged I am to share this planet with such resilient and beautiful creatures.
74
MOTHER VOLUME FOUR
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease