Mary Allen
Introduction: The State of Endangered Animals
Endangered animals are those species that are at risk of extinction or have a declining population. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), there are currently over 37,000 species that are threatened with extinction. The loss of biodiversity is a global issue that affects not only the animals but also the environment and human beings. The reasons for the endangerment of animals are numerous, but most of them are caused by human activities.
Human Activity: The Primary Cause of Endangerment
Human activity is the primary cause of endangerment of animals. The expansion of human settlements, deforestation, and agriculture are the leading causes of habitat destruction. The clearing of forests and conversion of land for human use destroys the natural habitats of animals, leading to loss of biodiversity. The introduction of exotic species that compete for resources with indigenous species is also a human-driven cause of endangerment.
The expansion of infrastructure such as roads, dams, and mining activities also affects the natural habitats of animals. Additionally, human activities such as pollution, hunting, and overfishing have a significant impact on the environment and the survival of species. For instance, pollution of water bodies leads to the death of aquatic animals while hunting and overfishing lead to the depletion of animal populations. Moreover, the use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture has led to the death of many animals, including pollinators such as bees and butterflies.