Part 7/14:
Once the land recovered, predators—long eradicated or suppressed—began to reappear naturally. Mountain lions, black bears, coyotes, and prairie dogs resumed their roles, rebalancing prey populations and contributing to a resilient ecosystem. This predator resurgence is being closely studied through scientific research, including the behavior of cougars and black bears, providing valuable insights into complex food webs and natural regulation.
The re-establishment of predators signifies a pivotal shift: Turner recognizes that a truly healthy environment must include all its native species, from herbivores to carnivores, in a balanced dynamic.