Question

The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
Gradually, life for the island's birds is improving. Antarctic prions and white-headed petrels, which also nest in burrows, had managed to cling on in some sites while pests were on the island. Their numbers are now increasing. "It's fantastic and so exciting," Shaw says. As birds return to breed, they also poo. This adds nutrients to the soil, which in turn helps the plants to grow back stronger. Tall plants then help burrowing birds hide from predatory skuas. "It's this wonderful feedback loop," Shaw says. Today, the "pretty paddock" that Houghton first experienced has been transformed. "The tussock is over your head, and you're dodging all these penguin tunnels," she says. The orchids and tiny herb that had been protected by fencing have started turning up all over the place.

• A. There is an increasing number of predatory birds and plants on the island despite the presence of pests which is a positive development.
• B. Flowering plants, herbs and birds are now being protected on this wonderful Antarctic island.
• C. There is a huge positive transformation of the ecosystem of the island when brought under environmental protection.
• D. In the absence of pests, life on the island is now protected, and there has been a revival of a variety of birds and plants.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The island's ecosystem is improving, notably for birds such as Antarctic prions and white-headed petrels. Their populations are growing as pest control measures are enacted. With pests eliminated, these birds can return to breed and benefit the environment. Bird guano also fertilizes the soil, encouraging plant growth.

Option D accurately summarizes the passage's main point: island life is recovering and thriving due to pest removal, benefiting birds and plants.

Option A is incorrect, stating an increase in predatory birds, which is not supported by the text. 
Option B is inaccurate; the passage does not solely attribute these positive changes to this specific protection measure. 
Option C is too general and fails to emphasize the crucial role of pest absence in the island's transformation. 

Therefore, the correct option is (D): With pests gone, island life is now protected, leading to the recovery of diverse bird and plant species.