Final answer:
When the owl population decreases, the mouse population tends to increase, as they have a higher chance of survival with fewer predators. Other factors like food availability also play a role.
Step-by-step explanation:
When there is a decrease in the owl population, the mouse population generally increases. This is because with fewer owls to prey on them, the mice have a higher chance of survival and reproduction. With more mice being born and surviving, their population tends to grow.
For example, if there are initially 20 owls and 100 mice, and the owl population decreases to 10, the mouse population may increase to 200.
However, it's important to note that other factors like availability of food and habitat can also influence the mouse population.
Learn more about Predator-prey relationship between owls and mice