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Endangered Species
On the Brink of Extinction
Endangerment is a complex issue that involves
the ecosystems where species live and interact together. Measures are being taken on specific issues of endangerment, but without protecting the environments where endangered species live, these efforts will be in vane.
There are many reasons why a particular animal or plant may be threatened by extinction. Scientist analyze these factors and classify them in groups. The following are the main factors that lead to endangerment:
Loss of Habitat
Earth is in a constant state of change, causing wildlife habitats to be altered and modified. Natural changes usually occur gradually, causing minimal stress on individual species. Humans have caused changes on our planet to occur at a much more rapid pace, leaving little time for wildlife to adjust to their new circumstances. Rapid habitat loss is the single most primary cause of endangerment. Most of the planet has now been modified by human activity, a trend that continues to accelerate. The consequenses may be disasterous.
Humans are depleting the soils of the earth, irradicating its forest, causing the extinction of fish and various marine animals, and changing global climate conditions by releasing greenhouse gases. Wild lands are quickly being converted to housing and farmland. Space once home to plants and animals are being elliminated at an alarming pace.
Overexploitation
Animals and plants that face overexploitation may become endangered or lost forever. Unrestricted whaling during the 20th century is a prime example of how overexploitation brought many species to the brink of extinction.
Today wildlife is threatened by illegal trade in animal parts. Bushmeat demands for elephant tusks, rhino horns, tiger bones and other animal parts drives a growing underground of illegal activity. Asia and other regions contain a strong market for animal parts used in traditional medicines.
Introduction of Exotic Species
Native species are plants and animals that exist in a specific ecosystem, having been a part of that environment for an extended period. Well adapted to this local environment they are accustomed to the presence of other native species within that ecosystem. Exotic species, on the other hand, are interlopers. Exotic species are often introduced by way of human activities, whether accidental or intentional. Interlopers are viewed by native species as foreign elements. Exotic species may seriously disrupt the fragile balances of an ecosystem and may result in unintentional but disasterous consequences.
For example, newly introduced exotic species may prey on native species. This could seriously disrupt the natural habitat and cause greater competition for limited food sources. Introduced exotics have resulted in endangerment and extinction of hundreds of plants and animals within the past five centuries.
Additional Factors
Pollution, disease, and limited distribution are additional factors which threaten plants and animals with extinction. A species without the natural genetic protection against a particular pathogen can be terminally affected by an introduced disease. Pollution has greatly affected many species, and limited distributions are a consequence of several circumstances; populations confined to small areas due to loss of habitat, for example.
What You Can Do:
Conserve Habitats
One of the most important ways to help threatened plants and animals survive is to protect their habitats permanently in national parks, nature reserves or wilderness areas. Donate to, or voluteer at, a nature preserve or let an area of your yard go natural.
Make Space For Animals
Plant trees, bushes and plants that benefit wildlife in your area. Place a birdbath in your yard. Compost in your garden. It eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers which are harmful to the planet and its animals. Refrain from using harmful chemicals in your home and garden.
Reduce, Reuse And Recycle
Use public transportation. Walk or ride bicycles rather than using the car. Turn off lights, radios and TV's when not in use.
Reuse paper and plastic bags. Don't allow water to run while you brush your teeth. Use water-saving devices.
Buy products and with less packaging whenever possible. Use clothe bags at the grociery store. Recycle items you no longer use by donating them to charity. Buy organic fruits and vegetables.
Plant Native Plants That Are Local To The Area
If possible, plant native plants instead of non-native varieties in your yard. Many environmental weeds originate from individuals' gardens. Seeds can be spread by the wind or birds.
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Speak Out For Animals
Tell everyone you know about threatened species and what they can do to make a difference. Start a group dedicated to protecting animals in your area or to help care for a nature preserve. Write letters and articles about endangered species to local newspapers. Call radio programs to discuss your concerns.
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