Help Wolves In Greater Yellowstone

The attacks are looming again. While the Bush Administration tries to make nice with the new President-elect Barack Obama, it is secretly trying to reverse federal protection of gray wolves once again.

The proposed plan, to strip gray wolves of their Endangered Species status, will once again allow state-sponsored killing of these magnificent animals in both the Greater Yellowstone and Central Idaho regions. Last spring over 100 wolves were killed when federal protection was lifted in these areas. Limpy, a local iconic wolf with charcoal-colored fur was one of the first wolves shot due to this decision. Limpy was part of the Druid Pack which lived in Yellowstone. He died on March 28th.

It is estimated that the License to Kill plan could produce 1000 wolf deaths during the first year. With populations estimated to be below 2000-3000, scientists believe it will be nearly impossible for the wolves to sustain long-term health should federal protections be lifted. Currently scientists report that wolf pups are dying due to an unknown disease. If humans begin killing these American treasures, the wolves are surely doomed to teeter on the edge of extinction once more.

But, we have a chance to make a difference. Public comments are being read until November 28, 2008 regarding the wolf slaughter. Contact Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, Department of Interior and tell him what you think. Sites such as NRDC Action Fund, or Defenders of Wildlife, will also direct you to public commenting.

The wolves need us again. Let the Bush Administration know that killing wolves will not improve the moral character of his presidency. It will only bring it down.