What’s that, you say? Surprise early snowstorm? Abnormal cold snap? Around this time of year, we start to get the sort of weather that gets us muttering “I don’t see any global warming around HERE.” CBC News has a great article on the difference between climate and weather, and why the phrase “climate change” has replaced the somewhat inaccurate “global warming".

One reason is the effect higher temperatures have on evaporation. More water vapour is going into the air, producing more precipitation. That could be more snow in winter or heavier rainstorms in summer.

Want to see it for yourself? Check out this interactive map showing the effect climate change is having all over the world. And you’ll find more videos and interactive features at CBC’s Climate Change site.

After a ten-year battle, the Cook Inlet beluga whale has at last been listed as an endangered species, meaning steps must be taken to protect its existence and habitat. Under threat of pollution, oil and gas development, ship traffic and climate change, the population has dropped to approximately 375, down from 1300 in the early 1990s. They were recently listed by The Independent as one of the five most endangered whale species.

The Cook Inlet belugas are the southernmost of five beluga populations in Alaska, and live in a distinctly different setting than their northern relatives. According to the Fisheries Service, no similar habitats exist in Alaska or anywhere else in the United States. Learn more about the Cook Inlet beluga whales at the Center for Biological Diversity website.

In May, US Vice President Cheney blocked efforts to protect the critically endangered right whale, as it would require ships to - gasp - slow down near the whales’ calving grounds. Do you suppose he bothers to slow down when driving past kids’ playgrounds, too?) The regulation was finally implemented in October - let’s hope it’s not too late. There are still many threats to the whales’ survival - click here to learn more and sign a petition to protect them.