What is the leading cause of death for game animals in Kansas?

Natural causes is considered the leading cause of death for game animals in Kansas because many factors contribute to wildlife mortality that occur in the natural environment. This includes predation, disease, accidents, and the effects of severe weather events. Game animals, like all wildlife, are part of a complex ecosystem where natural predation by other animals, environmental pressures, and competition for resources play a significant role in their life cycle.

While other factors like habitat loss or hunting do impact animal populations, they typically don't surpass natural causes when analyzing overall mortality rates. Illegal hunting and sport hunting are also significant issues, but they tend to account for a smaller percentage of deaths compared to naturally occurring events. Thus, understanding the balance of natural processes in wildlife populations is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation efforts.