Question

How does mining affect animals?

Answer 1

They disrupt and destroy habitats (during mining operations) and can cause water and air pollution.

Explanation:

Mining tends to have its biggest impact to animals in destroying animals ecological habitats. However, if the mine is reclaimed at the end of its life, these habitats can be restored through proper reclamation. Most mines last somewhere between 20-100 years.

Mines that are not closely regulated can also produce a lot of local air pollution that can impact wildlife (trucks and shovels burning diesel). Runoff from mines can also contaminate local water supplies such as rivers, creeks and lakes. This contamination can cause the death of wildlife and/or cause genetic mutations in offspring.