Question

the burrowing owl is found in dry, open areas such as grasslands, prairies, savannas, deserts, farmlands, golf courses, and 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?
○ the niche of the burrowing owl may change as it adapts to the changes.
○ the niche of the burrowing owl may change as it moves to a new habitat.
○ the population of the burrowing owl may be reduced or even become extinct.
○ the population of the burrowing owl may increase in its new surroundings.

Explanation:

When a species' habitat is destroyed (like burrowing owl habitats due to urbanization, losing burrows and prey), it faces challenges. Adapting to changes (option 1) or moving to a new habitat (option 2) can lead to niche change. Habitat destruction often reduces population or causes extinction (option 3). However, with loss of burrows and prey (negative habitat changes), the owl is unlikely to have population increase (option 4) as resources are diminished, not increased.

Answer:

D. The population of the burrowing owl may increase in its new surroundings.