Endangered species, if not protected, could eventually become extinct —and extinction has a myriad of implications for our food, water, environment and even health.
How does extinction of animals affect humans?
As species disappear, infectious diseases rise in humans and throughout the animal kingdom, so extinctions directly affect our health and chances for survival as a species. ... The rise in diseases and other pathogens seems to occur when so-called “buffer” species disappear.
Why do humans have a responsibility to protect endangered species?
When a species becomes endangered, it is a sign that the ecosystem is slowly falling apart . Each species that is lost triggers the loss of other species within its ecosystem. Humans depend on healthy ecosystems to purify our environment. ... If we allow our environment to become contaminated, we risk our own health.
Why shouldnt we protect endangered species?
The reason species are dying off so fast, is because of our great effect on the environment . ... Although we cannot save every species that becomes extinct, we can save the environment that we live in, to prevent every species from dying off. Not many species can survive in a damaged and polluted and damaged ecosystem.
What happens if someone kills an endangered animal?
The criminal penalties for killing an endangered species can be as serious as a year in prison and $50,000 in fines , and civil penalties can range up to $25,000 per violation. Often, the government will get a pass when it comes to killing endangered, especially if it’s to protect human life or livestock.
What animals will go extinct by 2050?
Although conservation efforts have shown promise, poaching, habitat loss and other factors have endangered many species of rhinoceros . For instance, fewer than 80 Sumatran rhinos remain and no more than 67 Javan rhinos exist, meaning they could all be gone by 2050.
What are the causes and effects of animal extinction?
There are five major causes of extinction: habitat loss, an introduced species, pollution, population growth, and overconsumption . Through the activity, students will create a list of reasons why animals can become extinct.
Why do we need to protect wildlife?
In a deeper analysis, it will appear that protecting wildlife is vital for the present as well as future generations . Life in the wild promotes biological diversity, which in turn, provides materials for food, clothing, medicines, papers, beverages and spices for daily use.
Are we responsible for endangered animals?
As the most intelligent species on earth, humans have a responsibility to protect endangered animals and plants . Besides, the moral obligation, it’s important we protect the planet because when plants and animals become endangered so do we. Here are four reasons why it’s important to protect endangered species.
Why do we need to protect animals?
The term of wildlife does not only covers wild animals, but also accommodates all undomesticated creatures , including birds, insects, plants, even microscopic organisms. To maintain a healthy ecological balance on this earth, all living creatures should be treated as important as humans.
How can we help save endangered animals?
- Reduce And Reuse. ...
- Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals In Your Household. ...
- Dispose Of Waste Properly. ...
- Prevent Soil Erosion. ...
- Maintain A Healthy Backyard Habitat. ...
- Support An Organization That Fights To Save Endangered Species. ...
- Advocate For Conservation. ...
- Vote.
How many animals are extinct?
Extinctions have been a natural part of our planet’s evolutionary history. More than 99% of the four billion species that have evolved on Earth are now gone. At least 900 species have gone extinct in the last five centuries. Only a small percentage of species have been evaluated for their extinction risk.
How can we stop animals from going extinct?
- Buy Eco-Friendly Products.
- Follow The 3-R Rule: Recycle, Reuse, Reduce.
- Don’t Buy Souvenirs Made From Endangered Species.
- Eat Less Meat.
- Spread Awareness: get involved.
How long can you go to jail for killing an endangered animal?
Jail. Persons prosecuted for killing or harming an endangered animal can spend up to one year in jail in addition to their fine.
Is killing endangered animals illegal?
It is illegal to harm or kill a threatened or endangered species whether it is on private or public land. ... Presence of a listed species on your land does not preclude projects or activities from happening on your land and does not grant access to your land by Federal employees.
Can you defend yourself against a protected animal?
The statute recognizes a self-defense exception if the defendant “committed the offense based on a good faith belief that he was acting to protect himself or herself, a member of his or her family, or any other individual, from bodily harm from any endangered ...
