Our Wild World

With returning guest Stephen Capra, we delve into a topic full of myths and outdated policies: that of wolves and wildness and ranching. Stephen explains with clarity why conservationists have not been able to make any traction with ranchers who have received the benefit of grazing their livestock on public lands and adopt a shoot to kill approach with predators. How do you negotiate with a group that is very good at saying no to any changes to an arcane system that greatly benefits them? And says that they will trap and torture and kill wolves in a barbaric way if they are reintroduced – which is sadly being done today in “killing contests” of wolves and coyotes in the US. Unfortunately, the conservation community has not been responding in a cohesive manner regarding wolves - which play a vital role in our ecosystem in the U.S. However, as Stephen details, the stage is being set for grass roots rebellion and now is the time to bring a bold vision forward and be strong for wildlife.