A random number generator is used to model the patterns of animals in the wild. this type of study is called

The correct answer is:

A simulation.

Explanation:

When you use a random number generator to model behavior like this, another word for "model" is "simulate."

The definition of "simulate" is "to create a model of."

Since we are simulating, that makes this a simulation.

This type of study would be considered a simulation; )