Why Do Animals Become Endangered?
Humans are largely responsible when animals become extinct, endangered or threatened. Here are some reasons why animals become endangered:
Destruction of Habitat
Humans destroy precious habitat--the natural environment of a living thing--when they fill swamps and marshes, dam rivers and cut down trees to build homes, roads and other developments.
Pollution
Oil spills, acid rain and water pollution have been devastating for many species of fish and birds.
Hunting and Fishing
Many animals are over-hunted because their meat, fur and other parts are very valuable.
Animals are hunted for fur for people to wear , they are hunted for parts that can be used in creams and make-ups crocodile skins for bags, shoes and clothes, jaguar and snow leopard furs for coats, scarves and dresses, tigers skins are used for wall hangings and carpets .
For money and trade: Some animals are seen as very valuable and prestigious, so poachers kill them to get lots of money for them.