This graphshows how the size of the lynx and snowshoe hare population have changed over the last 28 years. The lynx population is in hundreds and the hare population is in thousands. This data was gathered by counting animal skins sold by trappers in Canada.

1. Was the lynx population increasing or decreasing from 0-6 years ago?

2.  What was the snowshoe hare population doing 0-6 years ago?

3.  As the lynx population increases, what should eventually happen to the snowshoe hare population?

4.  If the lynx population would decrease, what would happen to the snowshoe hare population?

5.  By looking at this graph, how can you tell that lynx feed almost exclusively on snowshoe hares?

6.  Which animal is the predator?

7.  Which animal is the prey?

8.  Can you think of any other reason the snowshoe hare population might increase or decrease?

9.  Why did the snowshoe hare population decrease from 6-10 years ago?

10. Has the average population of lynx increased or decreased over the past 28 years?

11. Has the average population of snowshoe hares increased or decreased over the past 28 years?

12. If one-half of the lynx population died, what effect would that have on the Canadian environment?