What is the major cause of diminishing wildlife number?

Options

A. Felling of trees
B. Paucity of drinking water
C. Cannibaslism
D. Habitat destruction

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the major cause of diminishing wildlife numbers. To answer this, we need to identify the key factors contributing to the decline in wildlife populations.

2. **Identify the Evil Quartet**: The concept of the "Evil Quartet" is introduced, which consists of four significant factors that lead to biodiversity loss:
- Habitat loss and fragmentation
- Overexploitation
- Alien species exposure
- Co-extinction

3. **Focus on Habitat Loss and Fragmentation**: Among these four factors, habitat loss and fragmentation is highlighted as the most critical cause of diminishing wildlife numbers. This is because when animals lose their natural habitats, they are forced to leave their comfort zones in search of new places to survive.

4. **Examples of Habitat Loss**: A dramatic example is provided regarding tropical rainforests, which once covered over 14% of the Earth's land surface but now cover only about 6%. This significant reduction illustrates the rapid destruction of habitats.

5. **Impact of Pollution**: In addition to habitat loss, pollution also degrades many habitats, further threatening the survival of various species.

6. **Effects on Wildlife**: The fragmentation of habitats into smaller pieces affects species that require large territories or have migratory habits, making it difficult for them to thrive.

7. **Human Greed as a Contributing Factor**: The transcript mentions human greed as a driving force behind deforestation and habitat destruction. This includes the need for land for shelter, agriculture, and other human activities.

8. **Conclusion**: In summary, the major cause of diminishing wildlife numbers is primarily habitat loss and fragmentation, exacerbated by pollution and human activities driven by greed.

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