The reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone is expected to cause what effect on elk populations?

• A. Elk populations would migrate away
• B. Elk populations would increase
• C. Elk populations would decline
• D. Elk populations would stay the same

Answer: (C)

Predator-prey dynamics explain this outcome: when wolves are reintroduced, elk face higher predation, especially on calves, which raises mortality and can reduce recruitment. Elk may also alter their behavior and habitat use to avoid wolves, potentially lowering their overall feeding efficiency and growth. Together, these factors lead to a net decline in the elk population over time. The other options don’t fit because the added predation pressure tends to decrease numbers rather than increase or keep them the same, even if some elk may shift their range locally.