BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Scientists say in a new study that the return of gray wolves has dramatically altered the landscape in portions of Yellowstone National Park by curbing foraging elk herds that prevented new aspen, willow and cottonwood trees from taking root.
Study author William Ripple from Oregon State University said tree stands are expanding in areas where for decades dense elk populations prevented new growth.
Wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995 and 1996 after being killed off early last century. About 100 now roam the park, and elk numbers have dropped sharply.
As fewer elk allows the trees to rebound, Ripple says they are providing new habitat for songbirds and more food for beavers.
The findings from Ripple and co-author Robert Beschta will be published in the scientific journal Biological Conservation.
Study author William Ripple from Oregon State University said tree stands are expanding in areas where for decades dense elk populations prevented new growth.
Wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995 and 1996 after being killed off early last century. About 100 now roam the park, and elk numbers have dropped sharply.
As fewer elk allows the trees to rebound, Ripple says they are providing new habitat for songbirds and more food for beavers.
The findings from Ripple and co-author Robert Beschta will be published in the scientific journal Biological Conservation.
There is a very good reason for all species to be here!
Natures children
This is very interesting.Thanks for sharing!
This is Great information for the conservation of wolf's. There are people that say the wolf's in and State in the USA OR OTHER countries are Bad for the LAND. HA this Great news.
Thanks, Oregon State University.
Catherine L. Of NEW MEXICO, USA.
Nature and natural law together balance each other
What is bad is man interfering in the balance of nature.All creatures have their purpose on this earth.If man does'nt understand that balance it will be undone and follies they could'nt concieve will follow.Your Creator also created the wolf and gave it purpose,who are you of limited vision to believe you know better than him?