Wolves in Yellowstone National Park influence elk behavior, triggering a trophic cascade. This study investigated whether elk movement changes drive this cascade by GPS tracking female elk and correlating their movements with wolf distribution. Key findings show elk adjusted habitat selection based on wolf presence: favoring aspen in low-wolf areas and conifers in high-wolf areas. This shift redistributed elk and reduced browsing pressure on aspen, allowing for vegetation recovery. The research emphasizes the importance of predator-induced behavioral changes in prey for effective ecosystem management and conservation. Including behavioral studies in conservation strategies enhances ecosystem restoration and biodiversity outcomes.
