What is a major factor contributing to declining wildlife populations?

Habitat destruction is a major factor contributing to declining wildlife populations because it directly impacts the availability of suitable living environments for various species. When natural habitats are altered or destroyed due to urban development, agriculture, logging, or other human activities, animals lose the places where they find food, shelter, and breeding grounds. This disruption leads to decreased population sizes as species struggle to survive in fragmented or unsuitable habitats. Additionally, habitat loss can isolate animal populations, making it difficult for them to reproduce and recover, thereby accelerating their decline.

In contrast, conservation efforts aim to protect and restore habitats, and increased hunting regulations are designed to ensure sustainable wildlife populations. Natural population cycles may influence wildlife numbers temporarily, but they are not typically the primary cause of long-term declines compared to the persistent impact of habitat destruction.