Endangered Species

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Cross-Curricular Reading Comprehension Worksheets: D-11 of 36

 Endangered Species

Today, some type of animals are an endangered species. This

means there are very few animals of that kind left on Earth. The animals

could face extinction. Extinction is when all the animals of that kind die.

When a type of animal is extinct, it is gone forever.

One problem for animals is that their habitat is sometimes

destroyed by humans. As human populations increase, more and more

space is needed for people. Building areas for people to live pushed

animals out of their natural homes. Forest and swamp habitats are the

most threatened. Trees are cut down to make room for homes and

businesses. Swamps are fi lled in so that neighborhoods can expand.

The habitat is destroyed. The animals have nowhere else to go. Without

a habitat, the number of animals begins to go down.

Humans must prevent the extinction of animals due to the loss of

their habitat. We have to become more aware of animal populations

when considering building and expansion projects. Other options may

not be as convenient, but the survival of the animals needs to be taken

into consideration. Better planning and an awareness of how human

actions affect animals can make a difference. It is still possible to

maintain a diverse animal population for future generations to enjoy.

Another major cause of endangerment of animals is overhunting by

humans. The practice of shooting animals as a sport can quickly bring

the animals to extinction. This is a worldwide problem. The governments

of countries around the world must unite to agree on laws regarding

animals. Some animals may have large enough populations so hunting

will not endanger them. Others must be protected.

There is still hope for animals who are already on the endangered

species list. Some organizations are working hard to recreate habitats

for them. Breeding programs are helping animal populations increase.

We all have to be aware and think before we act. The things we do can

affect more than just ourselves.

 Answer the following questions based on the

reading passage. Don’t forget to go back to the

passage whenever necessary to fi nd or confi rm

your answers.

Cross-Curricular Focus: Life Science

Name: ______________________________________

1) What would be the result if worldwide laws were

passed to protect animal habitats?

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2) Give an example of something that can be done to

help keep endangered animals from becoming extinct.

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3) What statement supports the idea that the author

believes animals need to be protected?

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4) Based on the article, what does extinction mean?

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5) What is one way that humans affect animal

populations?

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