Habitat Destruction

Human activities such as deforestation for agriculture, logging, and urban development destroy the natural habitats of many species. For example, the clearing of rainforests for palm oil plantations significantly reduces the living space for orangutans, leading to their endangerment.

Climate Change

Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events alter ecosystems. For instance, polar bears are endangered because melting Arctic ice reduces their hunting grounds, making it difficult for them to find food.

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Pollution

Contaminants like pesticides, plastics, and industrial waste harm wildlife. Marine animals, such as sea turtles, often ingest plastic debris, which can lead to injury or death. Chemical pollutants can also disrupt reproductive systems and poison food sources.

Overexploitation

Excessive hunting, fishing, and poaching deplete animal populations faster than they can recover. Rhinos are endangered due to poaching for their horns, which are highly valued in some cultures for their supposed medicinal properties.

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Invasive Species

Non-native species introduced to new environments can outcompete, prey on, or bring diseases to native species. For example, the introduction of brown tree snakes to Guam led to the decline of native bird populations, as the snakes preyed on birds and their eggs.

Fragmentation

Human activities often break natural habitats into smaller, isolated patches. This fragmentation limits the ability of species to move freely and access the resources they need. For instance, roads and urban development can isolate wildlife populations, making it difficult for them to find mates and maintain genetic diversity.

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