Why Species are Endangered?

There are many reasons why a species such as the cheetah is endangered. Can any of the reasons you listed be found on the list below? Below are several possibilities that may help you better understand why species in general are on the decline. Which possibility from the list below do you think best describes why cheetahs are on the decline?

Pesticides are causing problems with reproduction

Poor resistance to diseases

Poor parenting behavior

High cub mortality

Infanticide by a male

Loss of habitat

Increased tourism disrupts cheetah behavior

Reduction in prime food supply

Not enough food for the female during pregnancy and lactation

Hunting pressure

Solitary life style

Limited genetic diversity

Other reasons

• How would you rank these reasons for cheetah extinction from most important (number 1) to the least important (number 10+).
• Defend your choice of the number 1 reason.
• Why did you rank the other reasons lower than a number one?
• Which reasons did you leave off your list? Why?