What animals became extinct because of disease?

* Passenger Pigeon: This species of pigeon was once abundant in North America, with an estimated population of billions. However, the passenger pigeon was hunted to near extinction by the late 1800s. In addition, a disease called pigeon cholera also contributed to the decline of this species. Pigeon cholera is a bacterial infection that can cause respiratory and enteric symptoms in pigeons and other birds. It is thought that pigeon cholera was introduced to the New World by European settlers and may have spread among passenger pigeons through close contact and overcrowding.

* Great Auk: The great auk was a flightless bird that was once found in the North Atlantic Ocean. It was hunted to extinction in the 19th century for its meat, feathers, and eggs. In addition, a disease called auk pox may have also contributed to the decline of this species. Auk pox is a viral infection that can cause skin lesions, respiratory problems, and death in auks. It is thought that auk pox may have been spread among great auks through contact with infected carcasses.

* Eastern Cougar: The eastern cougar was a subspecies of cougar that was once found in the eastern United States. It was hunted to extinction in the early 20th century due to a combination of factors, including habitat loss, hunting, and disease. In addition, a disease called distemper may have also contributed to the decline of this species. Distemper is a viral infection that can cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms in a wide range of carnivores, including cougars. It is thought that distemper may have been spread among eastern cougars through contact with infected domestic dogs.

* Tasmanian Tiger: The Tasmanian tiger was a marsupial that was once found in Australia. It was hunted to extinction in the 20th century due to a combination of factors, including habitat loss, hunting, and disease. In addition, a disease called mange may have also contributed to the decline of this species. Mange is a skin condition that is caused by mites and can lead to intense itching, hair loss, and infection. It is thought that mange may have been spread among Tasmanian tigers through close contact and sharing of burrows.