Kudos to California: State does good for wolves

Across the United States and Canada, regulations for the hunting and trapping of gray wolves are relaxing. But in California, where the beautiful canids are showing up for the first time in in over 100 years, they will be given an extra level of protection.

According to a CTV News story, a collared wolf – OR-7, who is known for crossing the border between California and Oregon – has fathered pups within 80 kilometres of the border, and biologists say it’s “only a matter of time” until the population begins to rise in California.

Cattle ranchers in California are, of course, immediately saying that all is lost for them and their livestock is doomed. But we know that predator-friendly ranching is possible. We know that co-existence is possible. And we know that wolves are essential to a healthy eco-system.

We want to celebrate the decision California has made to begin protecting these incredible animals and hope to hear more about their plans for co-existence in the future.

Photo by Christopher Bruno