Defenders in Alaska
Polar Bear, © Paul Nicklen / National Geographic Stock

Defenders in Action: Predator Control

Defenders of Wildlife has a long history of helping to shape federal, state and local policies to bring an end to predator control programs that are not based on sound scientific management principles and that threaten the survival of vulnerable wildlife. We also focus on strengthening public support for coexisting with Alaska wildlife, particularly wolves and bears.

How We’re Helping

  • Defenders works with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure wildlife management policies for Alaska’s National Wildlife Refuge’s remain strong.
  • We monitor, evaluate and comment on activities that have the potential to impact predator populations on national wildlife refuges.
  • Defenders meets with staff from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to discuss concerns over wildlife management proposals and programs.
  • Defenders conducts outreach with a wide variety of stakeholders who have an interest in wildlife management to build strong relationships that will help us develop effective programs and policies moving forward.

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Polar Bear, © William Bonilla
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For all its unique beauty, the Arctic Refuge is under assault. The oil industry and its political allies continue to launch attacks to open this national treasure to destructive oil and gas drilling, while climate change threatens to disrupt its habitats faster than wildlife can adapt.
Gray Wolf, © James Brandenburg / National Geographic  Stock
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Arctic Fox, © Jeffrey Kerby
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With a coat that changes color and thick fur even on their paws, Arctic foxes are well adapted to their habitat’s extreme cold.