New Science of Predator Control: Unexpected (emergent) Outcomes

Predator control has been based on the simplistic thinking that fewer lions or wolves would mean more deer and elk.  Therefore, many states promote over-hunting predators.  Interestingly, recent research from Washington State University's Dr. Wielgus and coworkers has reversed conventional wisdom: "Heavy hunting can result in higher overall density of cougars, increased predation on game, and more frequent conflicts with people -- in short, the exact opposite of what was intended." (quoted in National Geographic, Dec. 2013 "Cougars Make a Comeback")