EXTINCT, ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES!

Many animal species are disappearing from our planet. In fact, more than 5,600 species of animals are in danger of extinction.

Humans are largely responsible for animals becoming extinct, endangered or threatened. Here are some of the things that can put animals at risk:

POLLUTION
Oil spills, acid rain and water pollution have been devastating for many species of fish and birds.
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 structure or developments.
ENDANGERED animals are in immediate danger of becoming extinct.

EXTINCT means the entire species has died out.
INTRODUCTION OF EXOTIC SPECIES

When foreign animals or plants are introduced into a new habitat, they sometimes bring diseases that the native species can't fight. Exotic species, although able to prey on native species, often have no natural enemies.

HUNTING AND FISHING
Many animals are overhunted because their meat, fur and other parts are very valuable.


THREATENED species are likely to become endangered in the future.