Coexistence Over Conflict

The Myth of Wolf Depredation

While encounters between livestock and wolves can occasionally occur, wolf-related livestock depredation is minuscule. According to a report published by the Humane Society of the United States, in 2015 the USDA inventoried 112.2 million cattle in the U.S. and just 0.009% of cattle (or 1 in every 10,000 cows) was killed by a wolf. Livestock are far more likely to die of disease, birthing-related problems or from the elements than wolves.

Misinformation and special interests

However, powerful special interest groups that support the livestock industry, as well as trophy hunters and the oil, gas, and mining industries, seek to reduce wolf populations for both commercial and selfish interests. They often use misinformation to overstate the threat of wolves and justify killing them.

Subsidized grazing and the choice to kill wolves

Livestock grazing at a subsidized cost takes place across 155 million acres of public lands in 13 states—an area the size of California and Oregon combined, and while it is possible for ranchers to coexist peacefully with wild wolves, many choose not to. They use lethal methods to deter wolves despite non-lethal options being readily available. Under the guise of “wildlife management,” their solution is simple: kill wolves.

Mark Miller Photos/Getty Images

Science Does Not Support Wolf Killing

Science does not support killing wolves for livestock-wolf conflict management. In fact, research shows that killing wolves may actually increase livestock depredation. The death of one wolf, particularly a leader, disrupts the behavior and social structure of the pack and often leads to the pack fragmenting to into smaller groups. The surviving wolves may not be able to successfully bring down their traditional prey, forcing them to rely on smaller animals and scavenging for survival.

The ripple effect

Yellowstone's Lamar Canyon pack was thriving until alpha female 06 was shot and killed by a trophy hunter on Dec. 6, 2012. Stable and cohesive during 06s lifetime, the pack fragmented upon her death. One of 06's daughters, 820F, a beautiful light-coated wolf, became a lone wolf and was killed by a private citizen on Aug. 24, 2013 in what was deemed a livestock control action. Although 820F wasn't killed in the hunt, she was a causality nonetheless—her death a ripple effect of a broken pack social structure.

Fred van Wijk/Alamy Stock

Non-Lethal Deterrents

The use of non-lethal deterrents and changes to improved livestock practices are far more effective at preventing wolf-livestock related conflicts than killing wolves. Responsible livestock owners are fostering coexistence through the use non-lethal means to successfully deter wolves. A variety of methods are available, and they may be even more effective when integrated, including:

• Properly disposing of livestock carcasses to reduce attractants
• Barriers, such as fladry, fencing, and penning
• Synchronized birthing
• Birthing pens and calving sheds
• Human presence such as range riders
• Livestock protection dogs
• Other guarding animals, such as donkeys and llamas
• Alarm or frightening devices

Changing Perspectives

It is essential to shift the perspective on wolves from being seen as threats to livestock to being recognized as integral components of our ecosystem. By advocating for non-lethal methods of wolf management and raising awareness about the minimal impact wolves have on livestock, we can promote coexistence and protect these majestic animals.