Final answer:
The introduction of feral pigs led to an increase in golden eagle population, which preyed on the native island foxes, leading to their decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
The human introduction of feral pigs on Santa Cruz Island accelerated the extinction of the native fox for several reasons. Feral pigs caused environmental degradation, which harmed the habitat of various species. More significantly, the increase in pig populations attracted non-native predators, specifically the golden eagle, which preys on island foxes. As golden eagles came to the island for the pigs, they also hunted the native island foxes, leading to a sharp decline in the fox population.
Although skunks were not directly responsible for the decline of the island foxes, their populations increased as a side effect of the ecological changes wrought by pigs and golden eagles. The correct answer to the question is B: Increased pig numbers attracted the golden eagle, which is a fierce predator of foxes.