How is the wolf population naturally controlled in the environment?

The wolf population is significantly influenced by the availability of food sources, which directly impacts their survival and reproduction rates. When prey populations, such as deer or elk, are abundant, wolves can thrive and produce more offspring, leading to an increase in their numbers. Conversely, if food sources become scarce due to overhunting or environmental changes, the wolf population will likely decrease as starvation becomes a more pressing issue. This dynamic relationship between predator and prey is a fundamental aspect of ecological balance, demonstrating how food availability can shape population dynamics within an ecosystem.

While disease, environmental conditions, and carrying capacity also play roles in population control, the immediate and direct influence of food availability on wolves' ability to thrive makes this choice the most accurate in terms of explaining natural population control.