Threats To Mountain Animals
The mountain ecosystem has a unique habitat and has wide range of species that are adapted to the variable and harsh climatic conditions. The animals living in this habitat face many threats that impact their survival. Some of the threats are:
- Climate change: As the global temperature rises, the zones in the mountain areas the animals migrate to higher elevations, this can lead to the loss of species that cannot adapt quickly to the change in the ecosystem.
- Habitat destruction and fragmentation: Due to deforestation, use of land for agricultural purposes, and development of infrastructure make the animals migrate in response to the changes.
- Pollution: The use of pesticides in agriculture and pollutants from industries contaminate water sources affect the food chain and cause direct health risks to wildlife.
- Hunting and poaching: Illegal hunting and poaching for meat, and fur, of certain species pushes it to extinction.
- Dams and energy projects: Construction of dams for hydroelectric projects can affect the habitat of wildlife.
Also Read: The Functions of Ecosystem
Mountains and Mountain Animals
Mountains are high-altitude landforms that have rugged terrain and harsh climatic conditions with a vast diversity of habitats. The mountain habitat animals are Snow leopards, Himalayan thar, Mountain gorillas, and Andean condors. They have adapted to the cold climate by growing thick fur and wool. They also have fast hooves that help them to climb the steep slopes. In this article, we will read about mountains, their types, and the mountain animals.
Table of Content
- What are Mountains?
- Mountain Ecosystem
- Mountain Animals
- Habitat of Mountain Animals
- Threats of Mountain Animals
- Conservation of Mountain Ecosystem
- Conclusion: Mountains And Mountain Animals