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Loss of Habitat
There are many factors that cause species to become endangered but one of the most widely affected causes is habitat destruction. An ever expanding human population also results in an increasing need of habitat and natural resources. As humans continue to move into areas such as rain forests which are home to many diverse plant and animal species, the natural habitats of these species become altered. Activities such as logging and farming have greatly decreased the population of certain species. Large animals can require vast acres of land to thrive and as that habitat becomes limited the species suffers from restricted areas and limited food sources.
Illegal Hunting and Over-exploitation
Over-exploitation of a species can result in severe endangerment and possible extinction. Whaling that took place in the last century is an example of over-exploitation resulting in a severe decline that brought several whale species to the brink of extinction. Species such as tigers have been killed for certain body parts which were used as aphrodisiacs and for medicinal purposes. Elephants have also been exploited for their ivory tusks. Some animals are hunted and killed by farmers and others because they pose either a real or possible threat to livestock or humans. Many other animals such as primates are exploited through exotic pet trade or used in animal testing. Animals such as leopards have also been exploited for their furs.
Invasive or Introduced Species
Native species are plants and animals that belong to a specific geographical area and have been there for a long time. Native species are well adapted to the environment as well as other native species of the area. Invasive species are species that may move into the area due to loss of habitat, food sources or other factors. Introduced species are brought into the area by human activities. Dogs, cats, cattle and sheep are examples of introduced species that can impact the environment and food sources of native species. In some cases, the introduction of outside species may cause no problem but in other instances their effects can be harmful though unintended. The introduction of other species can cause a gradual decline in food sources that may decrease certain native species. The newly introduced species may also bring disease that is transmitted to the native population.
More Factors
Climate change can also affect native species. Normally, climate changes occur gradually giving the various species time to adapt to the changes. However when climatic events occur fairly rapidly the species may succumb to the alterations. Current changes in temperature and the melting of ice sheets in glacial areas are examples of climate change that can affect species such as polar bears. Pollution is another factor that can contribute to the development of more endangered species. Water pollution such as oil spills, introduction of toxic material into the water as well as reduction of food sources has had an adverse affect on many aquatic species.