Endangered Wolves

In early ages, myth and superstition guided the human beliefs, which have caused much suffering to the endangered wolves. They were killed for bounty hunting as people believed that a dead wolf kept in home will bring money and good luck to them. More than a million wolves were killed by poisoning between 1850 and 1900.

The middle-ages in Europe were a period of growing enlightenment and crushing superstition. People at that time had a widespread belief in werewolves. This sinister image of wolves was exploited by the Roman Catholic Church during the years of inquisition. People's fear of werewolves was used to maintain the secular control over them.

About Wolves

Today, there is a great emotional debate on wolf control. Some people are not in favor of killing the wolves whereas others feel that the wolves should be killed. But, the answer lies somewhere between the two positions. A wolf is neither good nor evil.

Wolves often come in conflict with the humans. The growing human population has reduced their space in the wilderness. With reduction in their food sources, they have to look for other hunting areas. As a result, they attack on the livestock of the nearby villagers, which has worried the ranchers and farmers.

An anti-wolf sentiment prevails over a significant part of Europe. In the past four centuries, a large number of wolves have been killed in most parts of Europe. A strong anti-wolf lobby is trying to influence some Judges and the political leaders of their areas to side with them.

Few wolves survive in the pockets of mountainous regions in Italy, Spain, France, and the forests of Finland. In rural areas of Russia, hunting of deer and other wild games have increased the conflict between man and wolves. In Asia, the numbers of wolves have declined considerably. However, substantial numbers of them are found in the remote areas of the Middle-East.

Modern reindeer husbandry has also brought the endangered wolf population in conflict with the humans. In Central Beringia, wolves were reported to have a low population. In 1989, only 50-150 wolves were spotted on the Seaward peninsula. An official policy to shoot the wolves from helicopters to protect the reindeer herds was in practice in Chukotka. But, recently there is a shift away from this policy.

Conservation of Endangered Wolves

To save the endangered wolves, some problem-creating wolves have to be destroyed. An agreement between the wolf conservationists and the ranchers and farmers has to be worked out in the interest of both the humans and the endangered wolves. The United States of America and Canada have laid down regulations to protect the endangered wolves from unrestricted hunting.

Nowadays, preventive measures are being undertaken by ranchers and others. They are regularly checking their herds, removing carrion, and have guard dogs for the protection of their cattle. A healthy environment for the endangered animal will only ensure a better living world. Therefore, all must become a part of the conservation debate on wolf control.