Date of Award
2012
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Dean, Erin
Keywords
Wolf, Wolves, Wildlife, Conservation, Yellowstone
Area of Concentration
Environmental Studies
Abstract
Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) conservation in North America is at a crossroads. Pushed to near extinction in the early 1900's, the species was recently reintroduced into the Yellowstone ecosystem after a 70 year absence. However, ranching interests and years of accumulated cultural hatred keep wolf recovery from progressing. This thesis explores the ecological and cultural impetus for gray wolf preservation. The history, conservation, and cultural legacy of Canis lupus are analyzed to investigate the ways human preferences influence wildlife management and to further understand the balance between meeting human needs and conserving biodiversity.
Recommended Citation
Bock, Kaitlyn, "Who Speaks for the Wolves? An Exploration of the Human-Wolf Conflict in the Continental United States" (2012). Theses & ETDs. 4559.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/4559