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Wolves

Historically, wolves roamed throughout the lower 48 states, but centuries of misconceptions and hostility toward the species led to intense human persecution. These factors coupled with habitat loss effectively wiped out the species throughout most of the country during the twentieth century.

Defenders of Wildlife has been a leader in wolf conservation since wolves first appeared on the federal endangered species list.  See what we've done!

Learn more about Defenders' wolf recovery efforts throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Legal Action for Wolves

June 2, 2009 - Defenders of Wildlife and 12 other conservation groups filed a lawsuit asking the courts to reverse the ill-timed and unwarranted removal of Endangered Species Act protections for wolves in the Northern Rockies.

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Proactive Wolf Conservation

Defenders is dedicated to preventing conflict between wolves and humans by supporting the use of preventative measures. Our work with landowners and communities is reducing conflicts between wolves and humans and increasing general tolerance for wolves across the landscape.
Learn more about all our innovative conservation solutions.

Wolves and the Endangered Species Act

In 1973, gray and red wolves were two of the first species placed under federal protections by the Endangered Species Act. Under these protections, wolf populations have reestablished in portions of the lower 48 states, but many challenges remain.
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Tell Governor Palin to Halt Aerial Hunting of Wolves

Urge Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to end aerial killing of wolves. Over 1,000 wolves have been killed this way since 2003.

Act Now!