Gray Wolf Research Paper

Wolves, a marvelous sight to see either in the Rocky Mountains or Yellowstone National Park. However, per Source #7, the Gray wolf was included to the U.S Endangered Species List in 1973. The government worked to increase the population and succeeded. But now in two states, Idaho and Montana, the Gray wolf has been removed from the list and can be hunted legally. Nevertheless, since there are Gray wolves in the wild, there is debate, should the Gray wolf population be protected by the government? The government should protect Gray wolves because they benefit ecosystems by protecting plant biodiversity. It is important to realize that “the reintroduction of wolves has benefited the ecosystems of Yellowstone National Park” (Source #2) To start with, Source #2 states plant biodiversity has been enhanced by the reintroduction of wolves in the …show more content…
Also, per Source #3, “Wolves prey on cattle, sheep, and other livestock.” In addition, harassing cattle prevents them from becoming fatter, consequently, the price of each cow drops on the market. Per Source #4, wolves killed 8,100 cattle resulting in $3,646,000 lost. To add on, Source #5 says $448 were lost per every cow that was killed by an animal predator. Per Source #3, Ranchers that neighbor Yellowstone National Park lose hundreds of animals each year to wolves, costing ranchers money. Although others may have a good point, coyotes, dogs, mountain lions, bobcats, vultures, and other predators all create a higher death toll of cattle than wolves per Source #4. However, it is important to realize that wild wolves are benefiting ecosystem in nature which are very important. The government shouldn’t make the illogical choice of removing wild wolves just so ranchers can earn more money. Wolves don’t kill the most cattle and are helping certain ecosystems thrive, therefore, the government should protect wolves in the