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STORY: Antarctica's sea ice decline has led to an unprecedented breeding failure among Emperor penguin colonies - where not a single chick survived.

British Antarctic Survey researchers said they had never observed a breeding failure at this scale in a single season.

Scientists looked at satellite imagery that showed the rapid and complete melting of sea ice of five prominent breeding sites.

It melted well before chicks could develop the waterproof feathers vital for their survival.

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Emperor penguins are dependent on stable sea ice firmly connected to the shore for the majority of the year.

Antarctic sea ice has witnessed an unexpected decline this year.

Scientists point to changing wind patterns and natural variability as well as climate change.

By August 2023, when sea ice should be at its peak in the winter, it's at a record low.

Projections suggest that by 2100, over 90 percent of Emperor penguin colonies could face extinction.