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How are threatened species being impacted by human activity and development?

Mila Pilkington

Threatened species are those that are at risk of going extinct due to various factors such as habitat degradation, poaching, and climate change. Unfortunately, human activity and development have a significant impact on these species. Human activities, such as deforestation, mining, and urbanization, lead to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation. These activities result in the displacement of species, loss of biodiversity and overall degradation of ecosystem services.

Human activities affect the life cycle of these species. The destruction of the habitat has a severe effect on the reproduction and survival of these species. Habitat loss affects the ability of species to access food and reproduce since the ecosystem services required for their survival are disrupted. For example, the destruction of nesting grounds, feeding areas, and water sources disrupts the food chain, causing species to migrate, sometimes long distances to find alternative food sources. These long migrations put a lot of strain on the species, and their survival becomes threatened.

In addition to habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade are also significant contributors to the decline of threatened species. This is particularly true for those species that are in high demand for their fur, bones, and special organs, such as elephants, rhinos, and tigers. The illegal wildlife trade is driven by the high demand for these products in Asia and other parts of the world, and the poaching is often carried out by poor communities who are looking for a quick cash supply.

Another impact of human development on threatened species is climate change. The warming of the earth's atmosphere is disrupting the natural climate balance that these species depend on for their survival. For example, the rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are disrupting breeding and migration patterns.

In conclusion, human activity and development have a significant impact on threatened species. The destruction, degradation, and fragmentation of habitat, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade, and climate change all contribute to the decline of these species. To mitigate this impact, we must adopt sustainable practices for human development and reduce our carbon footprint. Additionally, conservation measures such as protected areas, habitat conservation plans, and measures to prevent poaching are critical to protecting these species. As an individual, you can do your part by supporting local initiatives, conserving energy and resources, avoiding the consumption of materials from endangered species, and supporting environmentally friendly organizations to help promote a better future for threatened species.