Which of the following is a significant threat to wildlife habitats?

Habitat destruction is a significant threat to wildlife habitats because it directly alters or eliminates the environments that wildlife depend on for survival, reproduction, and food sources. This can be caused by various human activities, including urban development, agriculture, deforestation, and pollution. When natural habitats are destroyed, the animals that live there are often forced to migrate to less suitable areas, which can lead to population declines, increased competition for resources, and even extinction.

In contrast, legal hunting, when regulated properly, can actually contribute to wildlife management and conservation efforts by helping to control animal populations and fund conservation initiatives. Wildlife conservation efforts are aimed at protecting and restoring habitats and populations, benefiting rather than threatening wildlife. Similarly, the establishment of protected areas often serves to conserve vital habitats, safeguarding them from destruction and allowing ecosystems to thrive. Hence, habitat destruction stands out as the primary threat among the options provided.