1. Habitat destruction: The destruction and degradation of habitats due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution can lead to a loss of suitable environments for animals to live in. This can result in a decline in population size and eventual extinction.
2. Climate change: Changes in the Earth's climate can affect the availability of food, water, and shelter for animals, leading to a decrease in population size and increased vulnerability to disease and predation.
3. Overhunting and poaching: The unsustainable hunting and poaching of animals for their fur, meat, or other body parts can lead to a rapid decline in population size and eventual extinction.
4. Invasive species: The introduction of invasive species into an ecosystem can outcompete native species for resources, leading to a decline in population size and potential extinction.
5. Pollution: The release of pollutants into the environment, such as chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals, can pollute water sources, soil, and air, leading to health issues and a decline in population size of animals.
6. Disease: The spread of diseases, whether natural or human-induced, can lead to a decline in population size and potential extinction of animal species.
7. Limited genetic diversity: If a species has low genetic diversity, it may be more vulnerable to environmental changes and diseases, which can increase the risk of extinction.
Describe factors that might lead to an animal species going extinct.
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