Wolf Reintroduction in Colorado
Wolf reintroduction is one of the most complex and controversial environmental policy and management decisions currently happening. There are many angles to consider: ecological, social, economic, and political factors are all involved. To begin learning about this topic, this page includes a list of resources about previous wolf reintroductions, the science and reasoning behind Colorado’s wolf reintroduction, and what we can expect as this project begins this month.
Photo Credit: Darren Welsh, Unsplash
Ecology and Natural History of Wolves
Learn about the basic ecology and natural history of wolves. Read or download a summary below…
…or see additional resources on this topic:
“Lupinology (WOLVES),” an episode of the Ologies podcast, with host Alie Ward and guest Dr. Bridgett vonHoldt
“Wolves of America: Past, Present, and Future” from Defenders of Wildlife (2007)
Previous Wolf Reintroductions
Colorado isn’t the first to reintroduce wolves to an ecosystem - learn more about the Yellowstone wolf reintroductions with these resources:
“Wolves of Yellowstone” National Geographic
“25 years after returning to Yellowstone, wolves have helped stabilize the ecosystem” by Christine Peterson for National Geographic (2020)
Wolf Reintroduction in Colorado
Learn about the science behind wolf reintroduction in Colorado, Prop 114, and why this process is unique as far as environmental management in the US.
My blog posts:
Wolf Updates, Four Months Later (4-29-24)
New Wolf Map Just Dropped (1-26-24)
New Colorado License Plate Supports Wolves and Ranchers (1-25-24)
In the News: Wolf Reintroduction (1-19-24)
Other resources:
“Wolf Management” from Colorado Parks and Wildlife
“Rancher groups sue to delay Colorado wolf reintroduction” by Heather Willard for KDVR (2023)
“After an 80-year absence, gray wolves have returned to Colorado - here’s how the reintroduction of this apex predator will affect prey and plants” by Dr. Joanna Lambert for The Conversation (published 2024; added to post 1-14-24)
“Colorado Wolves: Frequently Asked Questions” from CSU’s Center for Human-Carnivore Coexistence (added to post 4-28-24)
“Wolves and Disease” from CSU’s Center for Human-Carnivore Coexistence (added to post 4-28-24)
“People and Predator Series: Colorado Wolves Informational Package“ from Collaborative Conservation (added to post 4-28-24)
Wolves in Environmental Policy
“Minnesota wolf policy should include Ojibwe perspective” by Dr. Clint Carroll for Star Tribune (2013)
“U.S. Wolf Action Timeline” from the Center for Biological Diversity.
