Why wasnt the wolf population also affected in 1996 and 1997?

The wolf population likely remained unaffected in 1996 and 1997 due to a combination of factors such as stable prey availability, effective territory maintenance, and successful breeding. Additionally, wolves are adaptable predators that can thrive in varying environmental conditions, allowing them to sustain their population during periods that might impact other species. Conservation efforts or legal protections may have also contributed to their stability during this time.