Imagine waking up one day to find that everything you’ve ever known has suddenly changed. The house you’ve lived in your entire life is no longer standing. The roads are very different, and you find yourself in unknown territory. There are elements everywhere around you that could easily bring you harm, and there is no way out. This scenario would be heartbreaking, highly upsetting, and many people would suffer. This is what happens to wildlife and underwater creatures on a daily basis as their habitats are destroyed by our irresponsible behaviour.
Habitat loss can be placed in three categories – Habitat Destruction, Habitat Fragmentation and Habitat Degradation.
Habitat destruction is done by completely removing trees and plants and changing the landscape.
Habitat fragmentation is another type of habitat loss that occurs when the land is transformed in a way that confuses the animals and disturbs their natural way of life. It also occurs when highways and attractions are built in the middle of woodlands and other natural regions.
Habitat degradation is a form of destruction that is a result of pollution which destroys habitats by altering the quality of air, water, and land while also serving as a breeding ground for toxins.
Knowing that habitat loss causes the death of wildlife and has a negative environmental impact, it is logical to question why we continue to engage in practises that kill biodiversity. We frequently destroy habitat in attempts to make more room for ourselves. Habitat destruction is the leading cause for extinction of various species because their food and water reserves along with their shelter is lost.
We can combat habitat loss by maintaining natural resources and learning how to use them in ways that do not necessitate such frequent habitat damage. We need to repair all the damage we have caused to natural environments. We can help support the building of sanctuaries for displaced species instead of saving habitats that cannot be saved. These safe havens resemble natural settings, allowing plants to develop and animals to dwell in peace without fear of extinction.
Humans are the only animal that can save earth. Yet, humans are the only animal that continues to destroy earth.
