Another question worthy of pondering. Are the predator numbers any higher now than they were 10 years ago or so where the deer numbers are currently lowest? Its been awhile but I believe Id heard pgc say that we had stabilized coyote number and they were no longer growing in pop. Hunting trapping incidental kills during deer turkey and small game + natural mortality various diseases, especially mange which is very prevalent in Pa keeps the numbers well in check overall. That might not be the case in localized areas of course all the time, as with everything, every square mile of the state isnt equal.
I think predation can effect deer numbers especially where they are rock bottom. I dont think it takes more predators than we had 10 or in some areas even 20 years ago to do it. I think the deer situation is just making everyone take a much closer look.