What does it mean when glacier calves?

When a glacier calves, it means that a chunk of ice breaks off from the edge of the glacier and falls into the water, typically resulting in the formation of icebergs. This process occurs when the glacier advances or when melting and warming conditions weaken its structure. Calving is a natural part of the glacier's lifecycle and can be influenced by climate change, which increases the rate of melting and destabilization. The phenomenon is often visually dramatic and can contribute to rising sea levels.