Gray wolves' absence leads to elk overpopulation and tree decline in Western US national parks, as indicated by a study in BioScience.

A study in BioScience reveals the significant role of gray wolves in American West ecosystems, with the absence of large predators leading to elk overpopulation and declining tree recruitment in Yellowstone, Olympic, and Wind Cave National Parks. The research emphasizes the importance of considering historical context and the potential influence of predators on findings in future ecological studies. Investigating national park archives can provide historical insights and inform more effective conservation and management strategies.

June 19, 2024
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