They also often target species already at risk of extinction.
Hunting and poaching are also major contributors to species endangerment. These activities are driven by the demand for animal products such as ivory, fur, and meat. They also often target species already at risk of extinction. Poaching threatens the survival of species vital to maintaining ecosystem balance, such as apex predators. To protect endangered species from hunting and poaching, law enforcement measures must be strengthened, and demand for illegal animal products must be reduced through public awareness campaigns.