Which species became extinct due to market hunting in North America?

The passenger pigeon is a notable example of a species that became extinct due to market hunting in North America. Once one of the most numerous birds on the planet, passenger pigeons were subjected to intense hunting pressure in the 19th century, driven largely by demand for their meat as a cheap food source. This overexploitation, coupled with habitat destruction, led to a dramatic decline in their population.

By the early 20th century, the passenger pigeon population had decreased to such an extent that the last known individual, named Martha, died in captivity in 1914. The extinction of the passenger pigeon serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that market forces and human activity can have on wildlife populations. It highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species and prevent similar fates for others in the future.

In contrast, the other species mentioned, while they faced significant pressures from hunting and habitat loss, still exist today, albeit with varying levels of population recovery or ongoing threats. For instance, the California condor has been brought back from the brink of extinction thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, while the American bison and gray wolf have also experienced population increases due to management strategies.