Let's analyze the population changes based on the given data for the number of squirrels entering and leaving the population over one year.
1. Determine the number of squirrels entering the population:
- Born: 4
- Immigration: 10
The total number of squirrels entering the population is:
[tex]\[
4 \text{ (born)} + 10 \text{ (immigrated)} = 14
\][/tex]
2. Determine the number of squirrels leaving the population:
- Died from predation: 2
- Left to find food: 3
- Died from disease: 8
- Left to find a mate: 3
The total number of squirrels leaving the population is:
[tex]\[
2 \text{ (died from predation)} + 3 \text{ (left to find food)} + 8 \text{ (died from disease)} + 3 \text{ (left to find a mate)} = 16
\][/tex]
3. Calculate the net change in population:
[tex]\[
\text{Net change} = \text{Squirrels entering} - \text{Squirrels leaving} = 14 - 16 = -2
\][/tex]
4. Interpret the net change:
- If the net change is positive, the population growth is increasing.
- If the net change is negative, the population growth is decreasing.
- If the net change is zero, the population growth stays the same.
Since the net change is [tex]\(-2\)[/tex], which is negative, it indicates that the population growth is decreasing.
Therefore, the correct statement that best describes what is occurring in this population of squirrels is:
- Population growth is decreasing.
