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?
Answer
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.
Explanation
Building cities can destroy burrows and reduce the insects and small rodents that burrowing owls eat. Owls may adapt or move to another habitat, and if they cannot find suitable shelter and food, their population may decline or become extinct. An increase in the population in the changed surroundings is least likely because those changes reduce important resources.
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