What is the primary cause of species becoming threatened or endangered?

The primary cause of species becoming threatened or endangered is habitat destruction. Habitat loss occurs when natural environments are altered or eliminated due to human activities such as urban development, agriculture, logging, mining, and infrastructure expansion. As habitats are destroyed, the plants and animals that rely on those environments for food, shelter, and breeding are significantly affected. This leads to loss of biodiversity, reduced population sizes, and can eventually result in extinction.

While natural disasters, pest control efforts, and invasive species can impact wildlife, habitat destruction is considered the most critical and widespread threat. Natural disasters are often periodic events and may not have long-lasting effects on ecosystems compared to the continuous impact of habitat destruction. Pest control efforts can be targeted and managed, and although invasive species pose significant threats by competing with native species, the overarching issue remains that the primary loss of habitat is a direct result of human activities that create long-lasting ecological damage.