Human activities like habitat loss, overconsumption of resources, and introduction of invasive species are the main drivers of species extinction. Specifically, habitat loss and fragmentation from development, overfishing of oceans, and the capture and sale of exotic species are reducing habitats and populations. Climate change is also negatively impacting ecosystems, while invasive species outcompete and prey upon native species due to a lack of natural predators in their introduced environments.

1. Human Impact on
Our Ecosystems

2. • Too many people!
• Weak/no laws
• High consumption rates
Root Causes of
Extinction

4. Habitat Loss/ Habitat
Fragmentation

5. Hunting/Poaching

9. Overfishing

10. Capture and Sale of
Exotics
2.5 million
birds
caught
illegally / yr
1 bird in
store = 10
deaths in
transit

11. Global Climate Change

12. Global Climate Change 101
Video

13. Introduction of Non-
Native/Exotic/Invasive Species
Cane Toad Zebra Mussels in Great
Lakes
Iceplant at Beach

14. Non-Natives/Exotics
Cause problems w/ native
species because:
1.Can poison natives
•Eat same food resources
as natives
•No natural predators in
new area.
•Reproduce w/ no limits
on growth.
Amer. Bullfrog in
CA
Crayfish in CA