Threats to Wildlife

Australia's wildlife is threatened by many natural changes. These usually take place over long periods of time. Some actions of humans however can have a more sudden effect on wildlife and lead to extinctions if continued. These threatening actions include:

Habitat destruction and change
Clearing of an animal's natural ‘home' (its habitat) is the greatest threat to its survival. Habitats can also be changed by fire, stock, soil compacting, road widening and dam building.

Photo  - Queensland Environmental Protection Agency

Introduced species
Species introduced to Australia from other countries prey on native species, compete with them for food and homes, spread exotic diseases, spread weed seeds and damage habitats. E.g. sheep, cattle, foxes, cats, tropical fish.

Exploitation
Activities such as over-utilisation (taking too many), poaching, killing and illegal trade can threaten wildlife.

Pollution
Pollutants such as fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and chemical wastes can threaten wildlife.