The case for watchful waiting with Isle Royale's wolf population

摘要: Introduction In “Should Isle Royale Wolves be Reintroduced? A Case Study on Wilderness Management in a Changing World,” Vucetich et al. concluded with the hope that their analysis “motivates broader discussion deepens understanding of specifics and underlying principles” (2012: 137). This article represents an attempt to continue discussion. The authors traced history National Park (IRNP) wolf (Canis lupus) population, emphasized possible effect canine parvovirus (CPV) reported recent decline discussed climate warming natural recolonization, laid out rationale for genetically rescuing population. follow-up article, same advocated “conservation or reintroduction” without specifying what they meant by “conservation” (Vucetich 2013). To best understand current status IRNP updating is necessary. early 2012, researchers found only nine wolves 2012), 2013, eight, including at least four females, most years old younger (Mlot 2013; Peterson research team observed courtship behavior one pair but not another, although indicated its observation time was low. However, many female northeastern Minnesota do breed any given year before five age (Mech Seal 1987; Mech Barber-Meyer, unpublished). Wolf litters average six birth 1970), pups surviving summer have averaged 3.4 (Peterson Page 1988). Food conditions 2013 appear excellent pup production survival. were well-fed winter 2012–2013, just during breeding season. kill rate moose (Alces alces) three times 2011–2012, calf recruitment highest ever recorded IRNP, moose-to-wolf ratio well above Thus, potentially 2014, population could increase over 60%, as it has done before.