The role of wolves in the ecosystem is one that is too often underestimated by humans, due to their somewhat frightening status as a predator. Predators may be fearsome creatures, like sharks or grizzly bears; it’s not often that one makes a positive impact on the world. Yellowstone National Park is one such ecosystem that needs the wolf, as this species was integral to restoring the balance to this region two decades ago.
Environmental Devastation
By 1926, the wolf was eliminated from Yellowstone National Park. This drastically changed the area’s ecosystem and caused serious damage. One of the top predators became the coyote. The coyote was too small to play the wolf’s role in keeping ungulate (hoofed, usually herbivorous quadruped mammals) populations under control.
Without the dead carcasses of the ungulates, it was more difficult for scavengers like badgers and foxes to find food. Additionally, elk populations, a crucial prey species for wolves, grew abundant to the point where park rangers began to kill and relocate them as a means of control. Elk felt safer eating shoots and new sprouts. This prevented growth and regeneration of young trees which resulted in reduced nesting space for songbirds and a decrease in the beaver population.
Rebirth and Regrowth
The reintroduction of wolves in the ecosystem of Yellowstone National Park brought about a major turning point. Coyote numbers diminished, which meant more food for foxes and other small carnivores. Meanwhile, fewer elk populated the park, and the herd learned to stay away from streams and keep moving. Willow and aspen trees began to grow again, allowing beavers to begin building dams, which attracted frogs and birds. Similarly, streams grew wildflowers anew, bringing insects that feed on their nectar, which in turn feed the songbirds. The water habitat improved for trout and waterborne insects. Coming full circle, the wolf once again provides leftovers from their kills for scavengers such as bald eagles, ravens, and bears.
Clearly the survival of many animals and plants depends heavily on the wolf. An environment lacking this useful vegetation and diverse wildlife would lead to multiple species’ extinction. Without wolves in the ecosystem, entire swaths of the Earth would not exist. This predator is undoubtedly a vital and necessary piece of the planet’s ecosystem puzzle.
Featured Image from cragaar/Unsplash
