Wolf ESA Assignment
Review your readings and watch the online NOW show on wolf reintroductions to Yellowstone http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/609/index.html , then answer the following:
- When were wolves reintroduced to Yellowstone? (Note when this video was created to get the right date)
- If you were to state the predictions that people had originally about the impact of the reintroduction of wolves in this area what would they have said? Make a prediction for the biologists and one for the ranchers/farmers. For example, as a tourist I would have predicted that a couple of packs (10-30 wolves) would have established themselves in the park but I, and other tourists, would not see them.
Biologists’ prediction
Ranchers’ prediction
- What actually has happened since the wolf introductions? Summarize how successful it has been.
- What benefits to the ecosystem and trophic system have resulted from the wolf reintroductions? Include the scavengers and plant life in your answer.
- What are a few of the remaining issues of concern for the biologists leading the program, for the state wildlife agencies, and for the local ranchers? You should list a few for each group.
Issues for biologists
Issues for state wildlife managers
Issues for ranchers
- What is your opinion? Should wolves be on the endangered species list? How should their population be managed in this area?
