Which of the following were factors that contributed to the near-extinction of the buffalo? Choose all that apply.

Question

1. Demand for buffalo hides increased in the East.
2. Open ranges where buffalo grazed were destroyed by settlements.
3. Migration patterns were destroyed by herding buffalo south.
4. After disease and drought, there was competition among animals for survival
5. A chemical fertilizer used by farmers was extremely poisonous to the buffalo.

Answer 1

The factors that contributed to the near-extinction of the buffalo include:

1. Demand for buffalo hides increased in the East. - This led to extensive hunting and commercial exploitation of buffalo populations.

2. Open ranges where buffalo grazed were destroyed by settlements. - The expansion of settlements and agricultural development reduced the natural habitat available for buffalo.

3. Migration patterns were destroyed by herding buffalo south. - This disruption of migration patterns impeded the buffalo's natural behaviors and survival.

4. After disease and drought, there was competition among animals for survival. - Environmental factors such as disease and drought affected buffalo populations and increased competition for resources.

The fifth option, "A chemical fertilizer used by farmers was extremely poisonous to the buffalo," is not a documented factor in the near-extinction of the buffalo.

Therefore, the correct answers are 1, 2, 3, and 4.