The wildlife sanctuary's conservation efforts have helped local wolf populations _______ after decades of decline. Where only a handful of wolves remained ten years ago, researchers now count over two hundred individuals.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
diminish
stagnate
recover
disappear
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage shows wolf numbers increasing from "a handful" to "over two hundred," indicating restoration after decline. "Recover" means to return to a normal or healthy state, precisely matching this turnaround.
Choice A is incorrect because "diminish" means to decrease, the opposite of the growth described. Choice B is incorrect because "stagnate" means to remain unchanged, contradicting the increase. Choice D is incorrect because "disappear" contradicts the growing population numbers.