This study demonstrates that rapid rates of global warming are likely to increase rates of habitat loss and species extinction, most markedly in the higher latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Extensive areas of habitat may be lost to global warming and many species may be unable to shift their ranges fast enough to keep up with global warming. Rare and isolated populations of species in fragmented habitats or those bounded by large water bodies, human habitation and agriculture are particularly at risk, as are montane and arctic species.