The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: America’s Wolves at a Crossroads

For anyone who cares about wildlife, public lands, and the health of America’s ecosystems,
the last several weeks have delivered a complicated mix of hope, frustration, and alarm.

The story of wolf recovery in the United States has always been controversial. Wolves inspire awe in some Americans and anger in others. But regardless of where someone stands politically or culturally, one thing is undeniable: wolves are a foundational species in North America’s ecosystems. Their presence reshapes landscapes, restores ecological balance, and reminds us that true wilderness still exists.

Today, wolf recovery is simultaneously advancing in inspiring ways while also facing renewed political and federal attacks.

This is the good, the bad, and the ugly of wolf conservation in America.

The Good: Wolves Are Returning to Places They Haven’t Been Seen in Generations

Perhaps the most hopeful recent development came from Sequoia National Park, where a gray wolf was documented for the first time in more than a century.

The wolf, known as BEY03F, traveled hundreds of miles across California in search of territory and potentially a mate. Her appearance inside Sequoia is more than just a wildlife sighting. It is a historic milestone.

Gray wolves were eradicated from California by 1924. Their slow return since 2011 represents one of the most remarkable wildlife recovery stories in modern America.

Wolves matter because ecosystems evolved with them

When wolves disappear, prey populations can explode, streamside vegetation can collapse from overgrazing, and entire ecological systems become less healthy. The restoration of wolves in places like Yellowstone National Park famously demonstrated how predators can trigger positive ecological cascades affecting everything from elk behavior to river health.

Now, California may be witnessing the early stages of a similar ecological restoration.

The Sequoia wolf also symbolizes something larger: nature’s resilience. Even after decades of extermination campaigns, habitat destruction, and political hostility, wolves are still trying to come home.

The Bad: Wolf Recovery Faces Growing Political and Federal Resistance

At the same time wolves are naturally reclaiming parts of the West, political pressure against wolf recovery is intensifying.

In Colorado, federal officials have launched a review of the state’s voter-approved wolf reintroduction program.

Back in 2020, Colorado voters narrowly approved Proposition 114, requiring wolves to be reintroduced west of the Continental Divide. It was one of the few examples in American history where citizens directly voted to restore a predator species.

The program has not been without problems.

Livestock depredation has occurred. Ranchers have suffered real economic losses. Compensation costs have risen substantially. Rural communities that opposed the initiative from the beginning remain deeply skeptical.

Those concerns deserve acknowledgment and serious attention.

Successful wolf recovery requires more than simply releasing animals into the wild. It requires durable partnerships with ranchers, investment in non-lethal deterrence, rapid compensation systems, range riders, fencing improvements, carcass removal programs, and collaborative wildlife management.

But there is an important distinction between improving wolf management and undermining wolf recovery altogether.

The danger today is that political opposition is increasingly aimed not at coexistence, but at dismantling recovery efforts entirely.

That would be a mistake.

America has already seen what happens when fear, politics, and short-term economic pressures drive predator policy. Wolves were nearly exterminated across the lower 48 states once before. Repeating that history would represent a profound failure of stewardship.

The Ugly: The Return of Cyanide “Bombs” on Public Lands

If the political attacks on wolf recovery are troubling, the renewed federal embrace of M-44 cyanide devices is something even worse.

These devices — commonly called “cyanide bombs” — are spring-loaded traps that eject sodium cyanide into an animal’s mouth when triggered. They are designed to kill predators such as coyotes, foxes, and wolves.

The name sounds extreme because the reality is extreme.

According to the Center for Biological Diversity, Wildlife Services used cyanide bombs to kill more than 6,500 animals in 2023 before restrictions were imposed on some federal lands. More than 150 of those deaths were unintentional.

These devices have injured pets, harmed non-target wildlife, and even sickened people.

One of the most infamous incidents occurred in Idaho in 2017, when a 14-year-old boy accidentally triggered an M-44 device near his home. His dog was killed. The boy survived only because the wind blew the cyanide away from him.

Yet despite years of controversy and public opposition, federal agencies are again moving toward expanded authorization of these devices on public lands.

This is not wildlife management rooted in modern science or ecological ethics. It is a relic of an older philosophy, one that treated predators as vermin to be eradicated rather than as essential components of functioning ecosystems.

There is something deeply disturbing about using indiscriminate poison devices on lands owned by the American public.

Wolves Are About More Than Wolves

The fight over wolves is really a fight over what kind of relationship Americans want with the natural world.

Do we see public lands primarily as industrial landscapes to be controlled and run for private gain?

Or do we see them as living ecosystems worthy of restoration and protection that provide benefits such as clean air and water to all?

Wolves force us to confront difficult questions about coexistence, acceptance, and stewardship.

They also expose a broader truth: endangered species recovery is fragile.

Species can spend decades clawing their way back from extinction only to have political winds shift overnight. Recovery is not permanent. Conservation victories can be reversed surprisingly quickly.

That is why public engagement matters.

What Concerned Citizens Can Do

If you care about wolves and endangered species recovery, there are meaningful actions you can take:

Submit Public Comments

Federal and state agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) are legally required to consider public comments during rulemaking and environmental review processes. Thoughtful, respectful comments matter. The USFWS is taking comments on Colorado's Wolf Reintroduction efforts. Send your thoughts in support of Colorado's efforts to the USFWS today. 

Support Conservation Organizations

Groups working on predator coexistence, habitat protection, and legal advocacy rely heavily on public support. Organizations such as the Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, and Wolf Conservation Center play major roles in conservation efforts.

Advocate for Non-Lethal Management

Range riders, guard animals, fladry fencing, carcass management, and compensation programs help reduce livestock conflicts without resorting to extermination. Tell federal and state wildlife agencies to adopt non-lethal management practices.

Contact Elected Officials

Wildlife policy is increasingly political. Let elected leaders know that science-based conservation and biodiversity protection matter to you. Contact the House of Representatives, the US Senate, as well as your state lawmakers and let them know you support wolf recovery efforts.

Support Public Lands

Healthy wolf populations require connected, protected habitat. Supporting national parks, wilderness protections, and public land conservation directly benefits wildlife recovery.

Stay Informed and Speak Up

Much wildlife policy receives little public attention until a crisis occurs. Public awareness can shape outcomes before irreversible decisions are made.

A Final Thought

A wolf walking through Sequoia National Park after more than 100 years should remind us of something important:

Extinction is not always inevitable.

Given enough habitat, enough protection, and enough public will, nature can recover.

But recovery is never guaranteed.

The same country capable of bringing wolves back is also capable of poisoning them, trapping them, and politically dismantling decades of conservation progress.

The future of wolves in America will depend on which vision of stewardship ultimately prevails.

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Meet Sean Smith, a master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning
conservationist and former National Park and Forest Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, Mount St. Helens, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and in the QR code included. 

Dire Wolves Return—But Is Conservation the Real Endangered Species?

In a groundbreaking announcement, Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotech company, claims to have achieved the de-extinction of the dire wolf—a species that vanished over 10,000 years ago. By utilizing advanced gene-editing techniques, the company engineered gray wolf DNA to express traits reminiscent of the extinct predator, resulting in the birth of three wolf pups named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi.​

This development has ignited a robust debate within the scientific and conservation communities, particularly concerning its implications for endangered species management.​

The Promise of De-Extinction Technology

Proponents of de-extinction argue that such technologies could revolutionize conservation efforts. Potential benefits include:​

Restoration of Ecological Balance: Reintroducing species that played crucial roles in their ecosystems could help restore lost ecological functions.​

Advancements in Genetic Research: Techniques developed for de-extinction may offer tools to enhance genetic diversity in existing endangered populations, potentially improving their resilience.​

Increased Public Engagement: High-profile projects like the resurrection of the dire wolf can raise awareness and generate funding for broader conservation initiatives.​

Scientific Skepticism and Ethical Concerns

Despite the excitement, many scientists remain skeptical about the authenticity and practicality of such de-extinction efforts. Critics argue that the animals produced are not true dire wolves but genetically modified gray wolves exhibiting some similar traits. Dr. Nic Rawlence, a paleogeneticist, emphasized that the ancient DNA used is highly fragmented, making it improbable to recreate an exact genetic replica of the dire wolf. ​

Moreover, ethical questions arise regarding animal welfare, unintended ecological consequences, and resource prioritization. Some experts contend that the focus should remain on protecting existing species and habitats rather than diverting attention and funds to de-extinction projects.​

Potential Political and Policy Implications

A significant concern is that the perceived ability to "bring back" extinct species might undermine current conservation policies. Policymakers could argue that stringent protections for endangered species become less critical if extinction is reversible. This perspective could lead to reduced efforts in habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and other vital conservation strategies.​

However, this line of thinking is flawed. De-extinction is a complex, costly, and uncertain process. The recreated organisms may not fully replicate the ecological roles of their extinct counterparts and could face challenges integrating into modern ecosystems. Relying on de-extinction as a safety net could result in irreversible biodiversity losses and ecosystem destabilization.​

Innovation vs. Regulation: A False Choice?

In response to the dire wolf announcement, Interior Secretary Doug Burgam praised the project as an example of how “innovation—not regulation—that has spawned American greatness.” While there’s no denying the power of innovation, this statement presents a false dichotomy.

In reality, regulation often drives innovation. Environmental protections—like the Endangered Species Act, emissions standards, and chemical safety rules—have historically created the demand for cleaner, safer, and more advanced technologies. Regulations set the standards that innovators strive to meet. They level the playing field, spark competition, and catalyze breakthroughs that might otherwise never happen.

The biotech tools used to revive the dire wolf were born from decades of research—much of it supported or shaped by public investment and regulatory frameworks. Discrediting regulation ignores how often it serves as the foundation for progress, not the barrier to it.

Conclusion: A Call for Balanced Conservation Strategies

While the advancements in genetic engineering showcased by Colossal Biosciences are remarkable, they should complement, not replace, traditional conservation efforts. Protecting and restoring natural habitats, enforcing wildlife protection laws, and supporting biodiversity are irreplaceable components of effective conservation.​

De-extinction may offer valuable insights and tools but is not a panacea for the current biodiversity crisis. Policymakers, scientists, and conservationists must collaborate to ensure that emerging technologies are integrated responsibly into comprehensive strategies to preserve life on Earth—not just resurrect it after it's gone.

Take Action:

Now is the time to act. The Endangered Species Act has protected wildlife and ecosystems for over 50 years. But in light of high-profile biotech developments like the dire wolf project, some lawmakers are calling to weaken its provisions or remove species protections entirely under the illusion that science can simply reverse extinction.

Contact your congressional representatives today. Urge them to stand up for the Endangered Species Act and its proven track record. Remind them that conservation is about protection, not illusion—and that our best path forward is one where innovation and regulation work hand in hand to protect our planet’s precious biodiversity.

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Meet Sean Smith, a master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning
conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

The Greatest Threat to Our National Parks Isn’t What We Thought

When I gave my TED Talk titled Why Protect National Parks ten years ago, I believed the
biggest threats to their survival were the usual suspects—urban sprawl creeping ever closer, reckless overuse, shrinking budgets, and the slow march of climate change. The solution seemed clear: keep the public engaged, remind people why these places matter, and keep fighting the good fight.

But I never imagined the biggest threat wouldn’t come from outside forces—but from the president himself.

A Storm Brewing Over Public Lands

In a blitz of executive orders, President Trump has taken a wrecking ball to the very foundations of our national parks. Thousands of park rangers fired. Budgets frozen. Protections for forests and wildlife gutted. Environmental safeguards rolled back. Each move may seem like just another bureaucratic shuffle, but together, they spell disaster for America’s most treasured landscapes.

The short-term fallout? A summer of chaos—park closures, mismanagement, and deep frustration for millions of visitors. The long-term risk? A national park system so weakened that it’s ripe for the taking. The same forces that have long eyed our public lands for private gain—real estate developers, fossil fuel companies, and politicians eager to hand over control to the states—now have an open door.

The Greatest Crisis Our Parks Have Ever Faced

Let’s be blunt—America’s national parks face an existential crisis. Not even World War I, the Great Depression, or World War II posed such a direct threat to their survival. During those dark times, we rallied to protect these lands, recognizing them as part of our national identity. With the stroke of a pen, Trump is unraveling over a century of conservation progress.

This isn’t just bad policy—it’s a fundamental assault on the very idea of public lands. National parks belong to all Americans, not just those with the deepest pockets or the best political connections.

What We Can Do

The good news? These parks have survived threats before—and they can again. But only if we step up.

• Stay informed – Policies can change overnight, but awareness is the first step in fighting back.
• Make your voice heard – Contact your representatives, support conservation groups, and demand accountability.
• Make your voice heard part 2: Write your local papers expressing your support for national parks, public lands, and opposition to Trump's policies.
• Spread the word: Post your support for parks on social media, and encourage your friends and colleagues to get involved.
• Amplify your impact: Join and support non-profits defending our public domain.
• Visit and support our parks – Show the world that these places matter as protected landscapes and as vital pieces of our national heritage.

The fight for our national parks isn’t over. But if we don’t act now, we may soon find ourselves mourning their loss.

Are we really willing to let that happen?

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

A Historic Milestone: Grizzlies Expand Their Range to the Pryor Mountains

It is refreshing to hear stories of species making a comeback in a world that often brings discouraging news about declining wildlife populations and disappearing habitats. One such heartening development comes from the Pryor Mountains, located near Wyoming and Montana, where a grizzly bear has been spotted for the first time since the 1800s. This remarkable occurrence not only represents a significant milestone in grizzly bear conservation but also holds promise for the future of this iconic species. In this article, we will delve into the recent sighting and its implications for the conservation efforts in the region.

The Return of the Grizzlies:

News broke recently when a grizzly bear was spotted in the Pryor Mountains, marking the species' return to the area after a long absence. The sighting has generated excitement among wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and local communities, highlighting the potential for restoring grizzly populations in their historical range.

Historical Significance:

The presence of grizzly bears in the Pryor Mountains is significant from a contemporary standpoint and in terms of historical context. The grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states of the U.S. has faced numerous challenges, including habitat loss, hunting, and fragmentation. By the end of the 1800s, grizzlies had largely disappeared from many parts of their original range, including the Pryor Mountains.

Conservation Efforts Paying Off:

The reappearance of grizzlies in the Pryor Mountains can be attributed to various stakeholders' dedicated efforts in grizzly bear conservation. Over the past several decades, organizations, researchers, and policymakers have focused on protecting and restoring the grizzly bear population. Initiatives such as habitat restoration, public awareness campaigns, and stringent hunting regulations have played a vital role in giving grizzlies a chance to reclaim lost territories.

Ecological Impact:

The return of grizzlies to the Pryor Mountains holds immense ecological significance. Grizzly bears are known as ecosystem engineers, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy and balanced ecosystems. As apex predators, they help regulate prey populations, disperse seeds through their scat, and create habitat niches through their foraging activities. The presence of grizzlies can have cascading effects on the overall biodiversity of the region, enhancing its ecological resilience.

Challenges Ahead:

While the grizzly sighting in the Pryor Mountains is undoubtedly a cause for celebration, challenges remain on the path to sustained recovery. Human-wildlife conflict is a persistent concern, as increased bear populations could lead to conflicts with local communities, particularly concerning livestock predation and human safety. Stakeholders must work collaboratively to develop strategies that promote coexistence and minimize conflicts.

Conservation as a Shared Responsibility:

The successful return of grizzlies to the Pryor Mountains underscores the importance of collaborative conservation efforts. It is not only the responsibility of government agencies and conservation organizations but also of local communities, landowners, and the general public to actively participate in the conservation and stewardship of this remarkable species. Education and awareness programs can play a crucial role in fostering a sense of shared responsibility and encouraging practices that support coexistence.

Conclusion:

The recent sighting of a grizzly bear in the Pryor Mountains is a testament to the power of conservation efforts and gives hope for the recovery of this majestic species. The return of grizzlies to their historical range not only contributes to the ecological integrity of the region but also reinforces the importance of protecting and preserving our natural heritage. It is a reminder that through collective action, we can reverse the decline of endangered species and restore balance to our ecosystems. The reappearance of grizzlies in the Pryor Mountains is a cause for celebration and a call to redouble our efforts to ensure their continued recovery and survival.

###

Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

National Park Talk: Dianne DuBois Interview

On this episode of National Park Talk, we talk with Dianne DuBois with the Center for Biological Diversity.  We discuss Trump administration efforts to strip the Gray wolf of federal protections, the history of wolf conservation, and what concerned citizens can do to protect the wolf.

To contact the Trump Administration and voice your support for protecting the wolves, please visit the following link: www.saveourwolves.org


The episode can be downloaded here.

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Sean Smith is an award winning conservationist and author. He is a former National Park Ranger at Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades. He is a TEDx speaker, and private pilot. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1989 with a degree in Political Science. He got his master's in Natural Resources Management from Central Washington University in 1996. He currently runs Washington State's efforts to reduce and eliminate toxic chemicals from consumer products and serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Covington.

He has been writing stories and books since he was a child and currently writes national park thrillers from the shadow of Mount Rainier.  All his novels can be found here: Mr. Sean D Smith

Join the Pack and Stand Up for Wolves!

The Trump administration recently announced that its proposing to remove federal protection for the gray wolf. If this action goes through, the management of the nation’s wolf packs would devolve to inconsistent state control. Some states have already signaled they will work to dramatically reduce wolf packs, going so far as to authorizing needless trophy hunts.

The Trump administration has opened a sixty day comment period on their plans to de-list the gray wolf. Hand signed postcards can carry more weight but all comment helps.

Click the image on the right, print, sign and mail it today to raise your voice in support of wolves!

Comments must be received by May 14th, 2019.

For more information on the government's plans to de-list the gray wolf, please click here.

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Sean Smith is an award winning conservationist and author. He is a former National Park Ranger at Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades. He is a TEDx speaker, and private pilot. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1989 with a degree in Political Science. He got his master's in Natural Resources Management from Central Washington University in 1996. He currently runs Washington State's efforts to reduce and eliminate toxic chemicals from consumer products and serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Covington.

He has been writing stories and books since he was a child and currently writes national park thrillers from the shadow of Mount Rainier.  All his novels can be found here: Mr. Sean D Smith

Happy Endangered Species Day

Today is Endangered Species Day, a time to learn about the countless endangered species that share our planet. It's also an opportunity to recognize those like the National Park Service who work to protect some of our most precious plants and animals.

In honor of our nation's endangered species, I created the following limited edition print which illustrates the Grizzly Bear, one of America's most iconic animals.  Enjoy!

Check out a previous edition of the National Park Talk podcast for more information on Yellowstone Grizzly bears and what you can do to help insure their future.

 

Sean Smith is a former Yellowstone Ranger, and an award winning conservationist, TEDx speaker, and author. He writes national park thrillers from his home in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park. To learn more about his thrillers click here or follow him on twitter: @parkthrillers