Spring Awakenings

When walking along the streets of Washington DC, robins and sparrow hop excitedly in and out of the bushes. The sweet smell of flowers offers a momentary elation from the bustling crowds. Above you, the tree branches are bursting with the pink and white blossoms for which the capital is famous (along with a few minor governmental institutions). Spring has arrived.

While people on their lunch breaks soak up the sun, scientists are worrying that the early arrival of birds, butterflies and blossoms will have negative affects on the web of life. For example, certain plants are bearing fruit before the animals that depend on them emerge from hibernation. Birds that hatch too early can die from the effects of late freezes. These changes can alter the season-based food chain so dramatically that they lead to the extinction of species.

Hopefully the sunshine and bird songs will cause certain members of Congress to have their own Spring awakenings. Our government must take action immediately to wean America of the energy consumption habits that are heating the planet.