Definition

When a natural habitat, such as a forest or wetland, is altered so dramatically that it no longer supports the species it originally sustained. Plant and animal populations are destroyed or displaced, leading to a loss of biodiversity.

Sodhi & Ehrlich 2010 ¹

Note: Habitat destruction is taken as synonymous with habitat loss.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) 2010 ²