In the last century, it is estimated that over 500 species of animals have gone extinct. The exact number can vary depending on the criteria used to define extinction and the discoveries made by scientists. Many of these extinctions have been caused by human activities such as habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species.
One of the most notable examples is the passenger pigeon, which was once abundant in North America but became extinct due to excessive hunting and habitat loss. Similarly, the Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine, faced the same fate from human pressures and competition with other species.
The loss of these species serves as a stark reminder of the impact humans have on biodiversity and highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species from following the same path.