In the summer of 1988, the Yellowstone National Park region experienced one of the worst wildfires in the park’s history; approximately 36 percent of the national park was burned. Wildfires are common in this area. Many smaller fires have been recorded over time. Plants in the Yellowstone region have adapted to these conditions. A species of pine tree commonly found there only releases seeds from its cones when exposed to the intense heat of a fire. Other trees and shrubs, such as aspen, willow, and sagebrush, are also found in this area. When these trees burned, vast open spaces were left in the forest. The Yellowstone region is also home to many animals, including elk, bison, black bear, moose, deer, and birds, all of which were affected by the fire. After the drought and wildfire of 1988, the greater Yellowstone region experienced normal amounts of rainfall for the next 12 years. a. Construct an argument that tells how the wildfire of 1988 affected the populations of birds and animals in the Yellowstone region. Support your answer with evidence.