Aspects affecting the free-living wild animals

a. Habitat loss

• The loss or degradation of the natural habitat in which animals live, because of a range of human actions such as expanding human habitation, disruption of wildlife habitat by buildings, roads and fences, exploitation of natural resources and cultivation of wildlife habitat and livestock grazing

Effects of habitat loss

• Disturbance of natural behavior, movement patterns and migration routes
• Fragmentation of populations and separation of social groups
• Disturbance of breeding and nesting sites, which can lead to increased offspring mentality
• Displacement of animals from their home ranges
• Increased predator vulnerability
• Increased inter-species aggression and competition
• Competition with livestock for food and water, leading to starvation and dehydration
• Fear due to the close presence of human beings
• Pain, injuries, and death

b. Pollution

• The release of contaminants into the air, water and soil, plus excess light , sound and heat
• Household and industrial rubbish
• Industrial and household chemicals in water, air and soil
• Disruption caused by light, noise and heat pollution

c. Human contact

• Negative effect that contact with human and domestic animals can have on wildlife welfare
• Direct contact with humans and domestic animals
• Research practices
• Ecotourism
• Disease and parasite transmission
• Distress, fear and injury from domestic animal attacks, poor research methods, presence of tourists and misguided rescue by concerned members of the public