I've been wondering... when or how often do predators "spawn"? Is it just at the beginning of a cycle, or can it happen in the middle of one as well?
I know it's best not to kill them but if I decide to do so for some reason, does it at least buy me some peace for the rest of the cycle, or will more crop up even sooner than that?

As far as I know they only spawn at the beginning of each cycle, the first ones from the nameless sisters quest are a exception, but you should really only kill those who are in your way and/or can't be avoided.

Those big cow things that suck you towards them actually drop color when killed, so they can be worth hunting.

Yes, I know, but I was still curious. Plus I wondered if, for example, I go into a chamber and see that there are just 2 jumpers wandering around the level, if I can count on there only being those 2 until the next cycle.