Hobbies And Interests
Marine Animals
Six out of the seven species of sea turtle are in danger of extinction due to over-hunting and fishing. The turtles are hunted for their shells, which are used to make jewellery and ornaments, while in some countries the meat of the sea turtle is considered a delicacy. They also become accidentally entangled in fishing nets. Fur seals, who spend a lot of time in the sea have also become endangered by over-hunting due to their prized fur, particularly along the western coast of Mexico.
Birds
The Gray Partridge is currently endangered in England and Ireland due to dwindling food supplies and the destruction of their natural habitat. This is happening due to farming in places where the partridges previously lived. Capercaille birds, found in northern Europe and Asia, are also losing their natural habitats due to deforestation; additionally, the erection of fences to keep deer contained poses a problem as the birds crash into them and die. They are also hunted in certain countries.
Mammals
Three species of bear have been listed as endangered in the U.S.: the American black, grizzly and Louisiana black. This is due to over-hunting, either for sport or because the bears are deemed to be threatening to humans. The Key Deer and Woodland Caribou are also hunted excessively for their meat and have been listed under the Endangered Species Act since February 2006.
Amphibians
California's population growth has resulted in great losses of natural habitat for the California Tiger Salamander, a species that thrives in woodland, grassland and near water. It has been listed as seriously endangered since 2000. The South African Western Leopard Toad suffers the same problem, as well as frequent collisions with moving vehicles.