A species becomes extinct when its death rate is continually greater than its birthrate.

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Direct Extinction

Animals may also become extinct through direct exinction.  This includes the hunting and capturing of animals.  Humans have always hunted and killed wildlife but early humans lived more in harmony with nature, they killed animals for essentials like food and clothing.  When guns were invented mass destruction of species was possible.  Animals have been, and still are, killed for meat, clothing,medicines, feathers, eggs, trophies, tourist souvenirs - and sometimes just for amusement.  Some species are still captured in the wild for the live pet trade, even though their numbers are dwindling.

Read More: Indirect Extinction

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