 |
Here’s how: The National Zoo is working with more than 40 other zoos
and breeding facilities to help save Mexican wolves.
To keep the population genetically healthy as it grows,
zoos collaborate breeding efforts through an |
Wolves from the Species Survival Plan are selected for reintroduction into the wild. But before they go, they live in near-wild conditions in order to get used to living on their own.Making the transition to the wild is tough—and living in the wilderness can be dangerous.
Wolves are fitted with radio collars so biologists can closely monitor their movements after their release. This type of research is critical to protecting and managing endangered wildlife.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released 11 captive-reared Mexican wolves into the wild in 1998. The agency will continue releases until the wild population is self-sustaining (probably around 100 animals). In January 2007, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service estimated the population to be 59 wolves.
Anticipating setbacks is important for any ambitious project, and the Mexican wolf reintroduction program is no exception.
Some people don’t want wolves around.
Occasionally, wolves attack livestock, particularly young cattle. To help ease the burden on local ranchers,
Defenders of Wildlife (a private conservation organization) reimburses ranchers for their losses.
There are three wolf management facilities in the United States, all working parts of the National Wildlife Refuge System:
Partners in Conservation:
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service protects, breeds, and releases wolves into the wild—all part of their Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. They also run the National Wildlife Refuge System—protecting critical habitat for wolves and other wildlife.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) coordinates the Species Survival Plan for the Mexican wolf. Under the umbrella of the AZA, zoos and other conservation organizations carefully manage wolves for breeding, share research, and work together to protect wolves and their habitats.
