When was the period of commercial hunting that severely impacted wildlife populations?

The period from 1850 to 1900 is significant in the context of wildlife conservation because it marks a time when unregulated commercial hunting surged, leading to a dramatic decline in various wildlife populations. During this era, advancements in technology, such as the development of more efficient firearms and transportation methods, enabled hunters to exploit wildlife resources on an unprecedented scale. This resulted in the overexploitation of species, many of which faced severe population declines or even extinction.

During this timeframe, animals such as passenger pigeons and bison experienced catastrophic reductions in their populations, largely due to unsustainable hunting practices aimed at supplying markets with meat and other animal products. The awareness of the negative impact of these actions on wildlife led to the beginnings of conservation movements toward the end of the 19th century, setting the stage for future wildlife protection laws and policies. This understanding of the consequences of commercial hunting is crucial for recognizing the importance of responsible wildlife management and conservation efforts that followed in subsequent periods.