Climate change causes the extinction of animals primarily through habitat loss, altered ecosystems, and changing food availability. As temperatures rise, many species struggle to adapt to new conditions, leading to shifts in their natural habitats. For example, polar bears depend on sea ice for hunting seals, but as the ice melts due to warming temperatures, their hunting grounds diminish.

Additionally, climate change affects the timing of seasonal events, such as migration and breeding, which can disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems. Many animals rely on specific food sources that may become scarce or unavailable as climate shifts alter plant growth patterns and animal behaviors. The combination of these factors can lead to population declines and ultimately extinction for species that cannot adapt quickly enough to the changing environment.