Which is the least likely outcome of the habitat changes that are described?
The burrowing owl is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, prairies, savannas, deserts, farmlands, golf courses, and other urban areas throughout most of western United States and Florida, Central America, and most of South America. It makes its home in burrows of other animals and primarily eats insects and small rodents. As humans build more cities, nearby burrowing owl habitats change due to destruction of burrows and loss of prey. Which is the least likely outcome of the habitat changes that are described?
A.The niche of the burrowing owl may change as it adapts to the changes.
B.The niche of the burrowing owl may change as it moves to a new habitat.
C.The population of the burrowing owl may be reduced or even become extinct.
D.The population of the burrowing owl may increase in its new surroundings.
The burrowing owl is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, prairies, savannas, deserts, farmlands, golf courses, and other urban areas throughout most of western United States and Florida, Central America, and most of South America. It makes its home in burrows of other animals and primarily eats insects and small rodents. As humans build more cities, nearby burrowing owl habitats change due to destruction of burrows and loss of prey. Which is the least likely outcome of the habitat changes that are described?
A.The niche of the burrowing owl may change as it adapts to the changes.
B.The niche of the burrowing owl may change as it moves to a new habitat.
C.The population of the burrowing owl may be reduced or even become extinct.
D.The population of the burrowing owl may increase in its new surroundings.
1 Answer
D. The population of the burrowing owl may increase in its new surroundings. This is the least likely possibility.
Explanation:
Destruction(or any disadvantageous alteration) of the habitat of a species is definitely harmful to its population. Thus C is completely possible(and in fact, I believe it is the most likely outcome).
The changes to their natural habitat may force some owls to move elsewhere. Again, very possible.
Some species adapt to survive in their new habitat. While relatively unlikely, it is possible.
D is the most unlikely possibility. This is because the loss of shelter and the loss of prey results in higher fatality rates of owls and lowered birthrates. All in all, it is extremely unlikely for a population to flourish after the loss of their natural habitat and prey.
(Correct me if I'm wrong, please, I am no expert in Zoology)
