What is a major factor contributing to forest fragmentation?

Urban development is a significant factor contributing to forest fragmentation because it leads to the conversion of forested areas into developed land for housing, commercial buildings, roads, and infrastructure. As cities and towns expand, they often encroach upon and divide large, continuous forested areas into smaller, isolated patches. This fragmentation can disrupt wildlife habitats, reduce biodiversity, and hinder the movement of species across the landscape.

In contrast, natural disasters can cause temporary disturbances but do not inherently lead to ongoing fragmentation. Forest conservation initiatives aim to protect and preserve forested areas, which would counteract fragmentation rather than contribute to it. Increased rainfall can influence forest health and growth but does not directly relate to the division of forested areas caused by human activities.