March 27-28

Predator-Prey Relationships: Wolves & Elk Data Analysis 🐺🦌📊

📅 Started: March 27
📅 Completed: March 28

In this activity, students examined real-world population data to understand how predator and prey populations interact over time. Using data from the Midwest grey wolf and Lolo elk populations in Idaho, students graphed population changes, analyzed patterns, and explored ecological relationships.

🧬 What We Did:

1️⃣ Background & Data Collection

• Learned that the grey wolf population has rebounded in parts of the U.S. due to conservation efforts and abundant food sources like elk.

• Reviewed a data chart showing wolf population, elk population, elk births, predation, and starvation from 2000–2010.

• Calculated yearly elk population changes using this formula:
  Elk calves−(Predation+Starvation)=Population Change

2️⃣ Graphing Population Trends

• Created a double-line graph comparing wolf and elk populations from 2000 to 2010.

• Used two different colors to represent each species.

• Observed how the two populations influenced each other over time.
  
  

3️⃣ Data Analysis & Discussion

• Interpreted how predator-prey dynamics caused elk and wolf populations to rise and fall in a cycle.

• Considered the impact of extreme weather, such as a blizzard in 2002–2003, on both populations.

• Discussed how predation, food supply, and starvation affect population stability.

• Reflected on the concept of ecological balance and whether death by predation is “more natural” than starvation.

🌍 Why This Matters:

This activity highlighted how predator and prey populations are tightly linked, and how both natural events and ecological interactions affect survival and stability in an ecosystem. Understanding these relationships helps scientists and conservationists manage wildlife and maintain ecological balance.

✅ Great job analyzing real-world data! Keep thinking about how every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of nature. 🌿📈