What is an example of humans over-hunting an animal to extinction?

Answer 1

One example of humans over-hunting an animal to extinction is the passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius). During the 19th century, passenger pigeons were once the most abundant bird species in North America, with populations estimated to be in the billions. However, due to excessive hunting for food and sport, coupled with habitat destruction, the species was hunted to extinction by the early 20th century. The last known individual, named Martha, died in captivity at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1914. This tragic example serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked human activities on wildlife populations.