Protection is Still in Place Without ESA

The delisting of wolves from the Endangered Species Act is a very controversial topic with many pros and cons. However, delisting wolves may be the better decision in the long run. Efforts to repopulate wolves have proven to be very successful in the past. Reintroduction of populations is a technique done in the past with wolves in Yellowstone National Park that was successful and actually boosted the wolf population (Archibald, 2005). This same technique can be done again in Oregon to increase their population. Along with this technique, ranchers and farmers can work with wildlife organizations to find alternative methods that do not harm or injure wolves. The main threat to wolves has always been human and wolf conflict, and there are ways to reduce that conflict as long as the methods are easy and can protect the livestock and human as well.

The current population of wolves right now is not close to extinction, and over time their numbers will grow (Fish and Wildlife Service, 2019). Even though they may be not be protected under the ESA anymore, the states are still able to establish laws that can help protect wolves from being harmed. Wolves definitely should be protected from hunting and killing, but they are not in as much danger as other species that are on the brink of extinction.