Question

a population of squirrels lived together in a forest. an event occurred that caused the population to diverge into two different species over a long period of time. which of the following is most likely the event that occurred?
there was an increase in the predators in the forest.
a natural disaster occurred that separated squirrels.
the winters were unusually cold in the forest.
a disease affected the squirrel population in the forest.

Explanation:

When a natural disaster separates a population (allopatric speciation), over time, the separated groups may evolve differently due to different environmental pressures, leading to speciation. An increase in predators, unusually cold winters, or a disease would likely affect the whole population in a similar way rather than causing it to diverge into two species.

Answer:

A natural disaster occurred that separated squirrels.