Buffalo in the United States almost became extinct while cattle, an animal that provides similar products, never has been close to extinction. The difference is due to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The use of private property rights on cattle and common property rights on buffalo played a significant role in the difference between their populations. Private ownership of cattle gave individuals an incentive to manage their herd sustainably and limit hunting, while buffalo were hunted freely on common land with no individual incentives for sustainable management. This led to overhunting and near extinction of the buffalo.

Buffalo in the United States Almost Became Extinct While Cattle