On September 3, 2011, I published my review of Montana's wolf population numbers in a peer-reviewed scientific journal (click here). The paper documents the flawed data used by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to make management decisions about wolves. This information is provided in their annual reports. The 2011 annual report was recently released, and I have been asked by several organizations to comment on its quality - click here. (To download this PDF, control-click for Mac or right-click for PC).
The 2011 data apparently demonstrates that depsite last year's public hunt, the wolf population has increased by 15 percent. This claim is being used by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to justify their proposed increase in killing wolves. After I reviewed the data, I found their claim was not true. Instead, the 2011 report contained unverified data and unsubstantiated conclusions, as in previous annual reports (see published paper).
After reading the review on the 2011 data, please use the comment section below, if you wish, to express your thoughts about wolf management in Montana.
The Submit button will become active only when entries have been made in all fields, and when the "I agree" box is checked.
How foolish of us to think we actually live in a world where scientific data and the means to make for a better environment actually matter to those in power. The possibility of making money and the ability to falsify information are always held in higher regard by those in office because, in the end, dead wolves generate more profit than live wolves. Until we as humans do something drastic about it things will never change.
My fear is that only after we have squandered all we have been given; all our natural resources, all our magnificant wildlife, will we come to realize what fools we've been for not doing something sooner.
- Travis
stop the wolf killing and torture and LYING ABOUT IT!!! Gov. Otter is the biggest danger to wolves and other wildlife in the west!
- joann butkus
I think that all wolves should be protected - they should be put on Endangered Species List. They are an apex predator - when you eliminate that you eliminate everything else that is underneath the wolf.
- Sandra McGee
I was greatly saddened that our government supports the slaughter of our precious wildlife. These animals are part of our country, part of our world, part of us. What kind of an egotistical idiot would continue to perpetrate crimes against our wildlife in the face of the evidence. I believe they just want to kill. It doesn't matter to them what they kill. When the wolves are gone they will find another species to eradicate. This is absolutely disgusting and heartbreaking.
- Patricia Fairchild
I am writing to express my opinion to the current wolf eradication plans in Montana.
Because of man's ability to kill which either frightens him or inconveniences him, wolves are victims of lies, misinformation, unfounded fear and ignorance. The hunts are an example of senseless, reckless killing. Wolves should be managed in a responsible way without interference from the hunting lobby or special interest groups. Accurate science based management rather than politician management is what is needed.
My husband and I spent three weeks in Yellowstone and Hamilton, Montana May of 2011. After spending time with locals we were aware of the pro and anti-wolf attitudes. We were amazed at the number of people who came to view wolves and like ourselves enjoyed the leaning experiences offered in Yellowstone. We were also informed of the hostile attitude of some locals who Shoot, Shovel and Shut-up.
It seems to be that education to counter the hatred and misinformation of the locals could help promote public acceptance to at least tolerable levels. Also, with so many tourist being interested in wolves, public acceptance would also create positive revenue to the state of Montana in the way of tourism.
It is our human responsibility to decide the fate of the wolf because Americans place great value on creatures of the wild.
Thank you
- Jan Hruby
