Learn English – What does “which” mean in this sentence

meaning-in-contextpronouns

This sentence is from a transcript of a podcast:

The researchers say that even mammals that breed year round—which should offer protection against seasonal shifts—may still feel the impact of climate change.

I don't understand what the word "which" means here. Does it refer to the "mammals"? If it does, I am confused by the whole sentence — what's the connection between the middle part of the sentence and the rest?

Best Answer

The which in this sentence refers to breeding year round, not the mammals per se. In other words:

Breeding year round should protect mammals from seasonal shifts. However, despite this protection, these mammals may still feel the impact of climate change.

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