Population Dynamics of a Recolonizing Wolf Population

摘要: Breeding populations of wolves (Canis lupus) were absent from the western United States for about 50 years following their extirpation by humans in 1930s. Here we describe recolonization northwestem Montana and southeastern British Columbia, initial production a litter pair 1982 through mid-1990s when 3-4 packs produced litters. Sex ratio captured favored females (38/54 = 70%; X 2 8.96, 1 df, P < 0.005). Litter size early summer (x 5.3, SE 0.4, n 26) December 4.5, 0.5, relatively high compared to similar counts established elsewhere. Pack May was unrelated June (r s -0.13, 23 0.25) or -0.12, 0.28). Annual adult survival rate (0.80) this semi-protected population higher among residents (0.84) than that dispersed (0.66) study area (Z 2.24, 0.025). Although dispersal common radiocollared (19/43 44%), growth within averaged 20% per year 1995. Low human-caused mortality rates maintenance connectivity between small larger Canada will enhance probability persistence expansion population.