Rapid Economic Growth Has Driven Rare Species of Large Carnivores to Extinction

Scientists at the University of Reading examined the global fortunes of 50 large carnivore species over the last 50 years.

They discovered that social and economic factors, such as quality of life, were more closely associated with large carnivore species declines than purely environmental factors, such as habitat loss.

The groundbreaking study suggests that rather than focusing solely on issues like climate change, the best way to save carnivores like lynxes, bears, and lions is to promote a sustainable model of social and economic development.

People's tolerance for big cats and other carnivores grows as they become wealthier.

Economics trump environment to save big cats

(Photo : Zdeněk Macháček/Unsplash)

"Our habitat and climate have become degraded and chaotic to make way for rapid economic development," said Dr. Thomas Frederick Johnson, who led the study while based at Reading, as per ScienceDaily.

They already know that this has contributed to biodiversity declines, but our research discovered that this economic development is causing far more extreme declines than anyone anticipated or imagined.

People appear to be becoming less tolerant of carnivores in the midst of rapid development, conflicts erupt, and we suspect that poaching and persecution are on the rise.

The extinction of large carnivores is dramatic. Lions and tigers have already lost over 90% of their historic range.

Many UK carnivore species, including lynx, wolf, and bear, have already been hunted to extinction.

The study, published in Nature Communications in collaboration with the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the Argentinian Instituto de Biologa Subtropical, involved the research team investigating how changes in the social and economic systems could promote carnivore recovery.

While rapid economic development has driven species to extinction, it has also resulted in enormous improvements in our quality of life.

However, Dr. Johnson and his colleagues' research suggested that once people achieve a high standard of living and economic development slows, a tipping point is reached and persecuted species have a chance to recover.

According to the researchers, the recovery is linked to improved habitat protection in advanced economies, as well as a more harmonious relationship between humans and carnivores.

What was once thought to be a dangerous pest is now recognized as an important component of our ecosystems and culture.

Large carnivore resurgence is already visible in Western Europe, where the improved quality of life and slower economic development have allowed grey wolf populations to increase by 1,800% since the 1960s.

"This gives us hope that we can restore our lost ecosystems, and we may one day see lost carnivores return to British shores," Dr. Johnson said.

But people must also consider how to save wildlife in rapidly growing countries where species extinction is a real possibility.

The findings suggest that a slower, more sustainable economic model can protect carnivore populations, but it also risks trapping people in poverty for a longer period of time.

Also Read: Loss of Large Animals Could Lower Soil Fertility

Ways to Help Wild Animals

Creating environmentally and wildlife-friendly environments can begin in your own backyard and community, as per ShareAmerica.

Plant native trees, bushes, and plants, especially those that flower and provide food for wildlife.

Trees recycle oxygen, returning it to the atmosphere for us to breathe while also absorbing potentially harmful gases.

Donate your time instead of money if you don't have any.

Volunteer programs are available at many organizations and zoos. You can help clean up beaches, save wild animals, and educate visitors.

Wild animals can be found in zoos, aquariums, national parks, and wildlife refuges.

Experts will teach you more about our planet's species. Get a close look at some of the most amazing creatures on the planet.

Pay the recommended entry fee when visiting accredited zoos and nature reserves in your area. Your contributions aid in the preservation of these vital conservation areas.

You can make wildlife trafficking less profitable by not purchasing products made from endangered animals or their parts.

Trash is not only unsightly; it is also hazardous. Plastic rings can trap the heads of birds and other animals. Fish can become entangled in nets. Trash also pollutes natural resources of everyone. Do your part by putting trash where it belongs.

Find new uses for items you already own. If you can't reuse something, recycle it.

The Minnesota Zoo encourages visitors to recycle cell phones in order to reduce demand for the mineral coltan, which is mined from the habitats of lowland gorillas.