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How Does Hunting Affect the Environment?

Hunting has been a part of the human race for most of recorded history. In ancient times, hunting served to feed and clothe people. In modern times, hunting is no longer a necessity in many areas, but some people still choose to hunt -- both for food and for sport. The sport of hunting has positive and negative impacts on the environment.

Population Control
- Many states that allow hunting of specific animals, such as deer, turkeys and ducks, place restrictions on hunters. Specific seasons are set aside for hunting each species. Depending on the animal, some states also place restrictions on which sex and how many animals a hunter can kill. All of these restrictions help keep populations from dropping too low. However, if hunting was not allowed at all, some animals could become too numerous and create overpopulation issues.
Environmental Balance
- Because hunters are only allowed to pursue specific species, some environmentalists argue that hunting creates an imbalance in the natural elements of the environment. For instance, if an animal that is typically a predator is hunted to lower numbers, their prey will increase in number. Nature has a delicate balance and hunting can have an impact on that natural balance. Opponents to hunting claim that animals have their own ways of population control and humans are not needed to aid that process.
Extinction
- In some cases, hunting has been the cause of extinction of about 23 percent of animal extinctions according to the University of Michigan. Whales and some African animals have become endangered due to hunting issues. Even with hunting restrictions in place, poaching, which is illegal hunting, is still an issue. In less populated areas, it can be difficult to catch and punish those who are over hunting a particular species.
Environmental Contribution
- Hunters may take animals out of the environment, which could have a negative impact on the environment. However, they also often contribute to the environment in a positive manner. The fees collected by the Department of Natural Resources for hunting licenses, park permits and other fees are used to improve the environment. Some hunters also contribute on their own to environmental organizations that conserve and preserve wildlife and natural areas. Hunters generally have respect for the environment and nature and make an effort to give back, even as they take away.

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