Likeability of animals has positive and negative consequences for conservation efforts
Human population growth and climate change along with the pressures associated with habitat destruction, over-harvesting, and pollution will put species at risk of endangerment or extinction. Conservation of individual species is an important tool for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health. Research has shown that if people like a certain organism, it can positively contribute to conservation efforts, by increasing the emotional connection to organisms and support for programs to protect those species.