What wildlife-related consequence can result from petroleum spills?

Petroleum spills have significant detrimental effects on wildlife and ecosystems. When oil is released into natural habitats, it coats the feathers of birds, impairing their ability to fly, insulate, and care for their young. Aquatic animals, including fish and marine mammals, can suffer from poisoning and suffocation due to the toxic components of petroleum. The introduction of oil into ecosystems can also disrupt food chains, leading to long-term health impacts on various species.

In contrast, the other options imply positive effects or outcomes that are not consistent with the reality of petroleum spills. Increased biodiversity, for instance, typically suggests a flourishing variety of species, which is unlikely to occur in an environment impacted by toxic oil. Similarly, improved feeding conditions for fish and the creation of new animal habitats contradict the destructive nature of petroleum spills, which can lead to habitat loss and degradation rather than enhancement.