Timber wolf populations are partially controlled by wolf behavior. For example, wolves form packs and are territorial. Therefore, only a finite number of wolves will comprise a pack and occupy a relatively large territory. Which of the following best describes this type of population-regulating mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The described mechanism is an intrinsic population-regulating mechanism because it is related to the behavior of the wolves themselves, rather than external factors like predation or resource availability. The pack size and territoriality of wolves ensure that their population size remains relatively stable within a given territory, which is an example of an intrinsic mechanism regulating the population.

Timber Wolf Populations Are Partially Controlled by Wolf Behavior