What evidence supports the idea that extinction is a natural event?

Extinction is a natural event that has occurred throughout Earth's history. There have been five major mass extinctions, and many smaller ones. The fossil record shows that species have gone extinct at a relatively constant rate over time. This rate is called the background extinction rate.

There are a number of factors that can cause extinction, including:

* Environmental change: Changes in the environment, such as changes in climate, sea level, or vegetation, can make it difficult for species to survive.

* Competition: Competition from other species for food, resources, or territory can lead to extinction.

* Predation: Being preyed upon by other species can lead to extinction.

* Disease: Disease can spread through a population and cause widespread death.

* Human activity: Human activities, such as hunting, habitat destruction, and pollution, can also cause extinction.

The evidence supports the idea that extinction is a natural event that has occurred throughout Earth's history. However, human activity is now the leading cause of extinction, and it is threatening many species with extinction.