Researchers of a National Science Foundation (NSF) study of how Adelie penguins in Antarctica respond to climate change, asked the question: "with the increasing climate changes, what are their chances of survival?" In 2009, David Ainley, Grant Ballard, and Katie Dugger received a five year NSF grant to conduct research on how these penguins were currently coping with the climate change. Ainley was curious to know why some penguins could successfully cope with the change and some could not. He wanted to know what qualities the surviving birds possessed which those that were dying did not. The researchers understand the unique species, and this allows them to see how they relate to the land and ocean habits with their current climate. Taking data from historical records, the scientists are able to predict how climate change with affect the penguins through changes in sea ice. Since 1996, David Ainley and his colleagues have traveled to the Antarctic for months in order to study the Adelie penguins. They use GPS devices to locate the birds along with nest tags to note where they are. Later, the researchers come back to track and record the Adelie penguin survival rates, as well as any migration or survival adjustments they may be making. Every year, the penguins of Ross Island return from wintering to build nests in breed in large bird colonies. This is always risky for the young because of the harsh conditions and predators. Success is completely dependent upon the cooperation of both parents and how well they can travel to the dangerous ocean to find food. Scientists have noted that the Adelie penguins exist where there is sea ice. They use the ice floats to their advantage to find fish and krill to eat. In 2001, a huge iceberg grounded against Ross Island pushing the sea ice out of the way. This prevented the Adelie penguins from reaching their prey and ultimately decreased the production of offspring. Prior to this, there were a