In the lynx–snowshoe hare oscillating cycle of population growth, the lynx eat too many hares, thereby reducing the hare population (and the lynx's food source). what is the immediate next step in this cycle?

a. the hares reproduce at a higher rate.

b. the lynx reproduce at a higher rate.

c. the lynx population crashes.

d. the food source for the hares increases.

e. the lynx begin preying upon birds.