A population of wolves in Wyoming experienced a rapid decline. Scientists found that 20 wolves died from rabies, 15 wolves died from mange (a parasitic mite), and 10 wolves died from natural causes. Wyoming experienced a recent drought, and many populations, including deer, bison, and bear, have diminished in the past year. What is best described in this scenario?
Answer
A
Wolves were exposed to too many limiting factors.
B
Wolves’ breeding season was affected by the drought.
C
Wolves were unaffected by other populations in Wyoming.
D
Wolves reached their greatest population growth.
Explanation
The wolves faced several limiting factors: rabies, mange, natural causes, and drought-related changes in the ecosystem. The deaths from disease and other causes, along with diminished populations of potential prey or competitors, help explain the rapid decline. Thus, the best choice is that wolves were exposed to too many limiting factors.
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