Question #N604
The recent discovery of a new species of bird, the scarlet-winged tanager, has excited ornithologists worldwide. Its striking red and yellow plumage makes it one of the most colorful birds in the Amazon rainforest. However, conservationists are concerned about the tanager's future due to its restricted range and the rapid deforestation of its habitat.
Which choice best completes the sentence with the correct punctuation?
A. The scarlet-winged tanager, however, conservationists are concerned about the tanager's future due to its restricted range, and the rapid deforestation of its habitat.
B. The scarlet-winged tanager however, conservationists are concerned about the tanager's future due to its restricted range and the rapid deforestation of its habitat.
C. The scarlet-winged tanager; however, conservationists are concerned about the tanager's future due to its restricted range, and the rapid deforestation of its habitat.
D. The scarlet-winged tanager, however; conservationists are concerned about the tanager's future due to its restricted range and the rapid deforestation of its habitat.
Correct Answer is: A
The sentence contains a transition word, "However." This word introduces a contrast between the two clauses, which is why a comma is needed before it. Since the first clause is independent and the second clause is dependent, no other punctuation is needed.