How Wolves Hunt Elk

Wolves have been hunting elk for thousands of years. They’ve evolved to become the perfect hunter. But most people don’t think about the fact that the elk have been running away from wolves for just as long and have gotten just as good at that. In fact, wolves are actually successful in catching their prey … Read more

How Wolves Indirectly Shape Elk Behavior and the Landscape

The impact of wolves on elk populations goes beyond direct predation. Wolves don’t just hunt elk. They change their behavior, influencing everything from grazing patterns to birthing rates, all of which have far-reaching effects on the ecosystem around them. Changes in Behavior The presence of wolves on the landscape affects when and where elk choose … Read more

Wolves Directly Impact the Health of Elk Herds

Wolves play a essential role in maintaining healthy elk populations and ecosystems by preying on weaker individuals, naturally balancing herd numbers, and reducing the spread of diseases like chronic wasting disease. Their presence on the landscape prevents overgrazing and supports biodiversity, showing that natural predators are essential for ungulate populations and the ecosystem as a … Read more

Wolves and Ecosystems: Keystone Species & Trophic Cascades

When it comes to wolves and their impact on the environment, there are a lot of different views. Some think wolves destroy their ecosystems by decimating the elk populations. Others say that nature cannot function without them. The truth is somewhere in between. It is silly to claim that wolves would decimate any other animal … Read more

The Relationship between Wolves and Elk: Are wolves decimating the elk population?

One of the most common arguments in discussions of wolf management is the idea that wolves are decimating the elk population. It’s a logical thought. Wolves eat elk. More wolves must mean less elk. This conclusion has shaped our wildlife management practices as well as our public perception of the wolf. But a lot has … Read more