CONSERVATION & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

June 3, 2025

Red Wolf Recovery: A Cautionary Tale

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program in North Carolina has become a case study in how the reintroduction of wolves, viewed by some as conservation, can go off track. 

A Rocky Road Since the Start

Launched in 1987, the program set out to reintroduce red wolves into the wild, with most of the initial releases taking place in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. But serious problems emerged almost immediately – genetic dilution through coyote interbreeding, ongoing conflicts with landowners, and a steady decline in public support. In 2015, the program’s momentum stalled when the FWS stopped releasing captive-born wolves into the wild.

Legal Pressure Overrides Local Concerns

That pause triggered legal action from advocacy groups, culminating in a 2023 court settlement that forced the agency to restart wolf releases over the next eight years. Despite this mandate, the program continues to struggle. As of early 2025, just 17 to 19 red wolves roam the wild, with another 270 held in captivity – numbers that hardly justify decades of effort and expense.

Community Frustration Runs Deep

One of the biggest issues has been the program’s poor relationship with local communities. Landowners like Jett Ferebee, whose property sits within the recovery zone, have repeatedly voiced concerns about wolves crossing onto private land and the broader implications for land use and safety. Their frustration reflects a broader sentiment: that federal officials are making decisions from afar, with little regard for those who bear the consequences on the ground.

Relevant Reading | The Tough Choices Of Saving Wildlife

 

Big Costs, Uncertain Results

The financial side of the program is also hard to ignore. The federal government has spent millions – including a $328 million recovery plan – and invested in infrastructure like wildlife crossings to reduce roadkill. Yet, despite all that spending, results have been mixed at best.

Looking Ahead

Conservation initiatives must be rooted in practical science, responsive to local communities, and transparent in their execution. Without these principles, programs risk becoming expensive, divisive, and ultimately ineffective. In the case of the red wolf, decades of effort have yielded little more than controversy – and few lessons seem to have been learned.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

Bighorn Sheep: Where Management Meets Preservation

Bighorn sheep, known for their iconic curled horns and rugged resilience, roam the mountainous landscapes of western North America, stretching from Canada to Mexico. These remarkable animals are not only emblems of the wild, but also central to a nuanced and sometimes controversial approach to conservation.

Though often misunderstood, regulated harvest programs have become vital to modern wildlife stewardship. Much of the funding behind today’s bighorn conservation initiatives comes from enthusiasts and organizations dedicated to sustainable use, including the Wild Sheep Foundation and private supporters like the Cabela Family Foundation. 

These majestic animals face numerous challenges – habitat loss, climate change, and disease chief among them. A particularly devastating threat is Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (MOVI), a bacterial infection originally passed from domestic livestock. MOVI causes severe pneumonia in bighorn populations, especially lambs, and some adult sheep become “chronic shedders,” spreading the illness and hindering population recovery.

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In Nevada, wildlife officials and conservation teams are tackling the problem head-on. They capture and test bighorns to identify and remove these chronic carriers. This delicate operation requires helicopters, skilled pilots, veterinarians, and field crews, all working together to minimize stress on the animals. Techniques like blindfolding and cooling help keep the sheep calm and healthy during these procedures.

Fieldwork is only one part of a much larger equation. Public revenue generated from tightly regulated opportunities to pursue bighorn sheep plays a crucial role in funding these conservation strategies. Fewer than 1,000 tags are issued across the U.S. each year, with some auctioned for as much as $400,000- dollars that go directly back into protecting the species and their habitat.

Importantly, this isn’t about taking for sport. It’s about stewardship through regulation, funding, and respect for the land. Managed harvest is not separate from conservation – it is intertwined with it. Those who engage in both resource use and restoration often gain a profound respect for the ecosystems they help support. In the case of bighorn sheep, this connection has become a lifeline for the species and a compelling example of how thoughtful wildlife management can serve preservation.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

How Antelope Thrive in Namibia’s Harsh Wilderness

Namibia’s vast, dry landscapes are home to a fascinating variety of antelope species, each with its own clever ways of surviving in one of the toughest environments on Earth. Recent research has shed new light on how these animals manage to dodge predators and cope with limited water – revealing just how finely tuned their survival strategies really are.

Staying Safe in a Tough Terrain

In the arid regions of Namibia, antelope face two major threats: predators and a serious lack of water. Studies show that many species, like the springbok and kudu, adjust their movement patterns to avoid danger and conserve energy. Rather than roaming freely, they stick to areas where they have better visibility and a higher chance of spotting predators before it’s too late.

Interestingly, even waterholes – vital for hydration – can be risky. These spots often attract predators, so antelope tend to time their visits carefully, avoiding them during periods of high predator activity. It’s a delicate balancing act between staying hydrated and staying alive.

Built for the Desert

Namibia’s climate is no joke – high temperatures and scarce rainfall make survival a daily challenge. Some antelope, like the springbok, have adapted by getting most of their moisture from the plants they eat. This reduces their need to drink water directly, which is a huge advantage when water is hard to find.

Their ability to detect predators is also key. With sharp senses and quick reflexes, these animals can often spot danger early and make a fast getaway. Their agility and speed are essential for escaping threats in open, unforgiving terrain.

In research published in the Wildlife Society Bulletin, Nauyoma and his team investigated how antelope navigate and utilize the landscape in Mudumu.

Why It Matters for Conservation

Understanding how antelope behave and adapt to their environment isn’t just interesting – it’s vital for conservation. Knowing what influences their movements and survival can help conservationists design better strategies to protect them. That includes preserving important habitats and ensuring that water sources are accessible but safe from predators.

Relevant Reading | The Cost Of Conservation

A Story of Resilience

Namibia’s antelope are a powerful example of nature’s resilience. Their behavior reflects a delicate balance between survival, predator pressure, and the demands of a harsh climate. Ongoing research and strong conservation efforts are key to making sure these incredible animals continue to thrive in the wild.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

Reviving Bobwhite Quail: How Working Lands Are Leading the Way

The northern bobwhite quail, once a staple of American grasslands, has seen its population plummet by over 80% in the past three decades. This decline is primarily due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation. However, a concerted effort through the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program is turning the tide.

What Are the Working Lands for Wildlife Program?

Launched in 2012, WLFW is a voluntary conservation initiative under the Farm Bill. It empowers farmers, ranchers, and landowners to implement wildlife-friendly practices on their working lands. By collaborating with state agencies, conservation groups, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), WLFW aims to conserve priority species without hindering agricultural productivity.

Bobwhite Quail: An Indicator Species

Bobwhite quail are considered “edge” species, thriving in areas where grasslands meet forests or croplands. They require a mix of grassy cover and forbs for food, shelter, and protection. The WLFW Bobwhite Initiative, active since 2017, focuses on restoring these habitats to support quail populations. The initiative has expanded to 24 states, with a goal to conserve 7 million acres of bobwhite habitat by 2026.

Conservation Practices in Action

The WLFW program employs a range of habitat restoration techniques:

  • Invasive Species Management: In states like Kansas, removing invasive trees from native grasslands helps restore open habitats for quail.
  • Brush Management and Timber Thinning: In Georgia and South Carolina, these practices promote healthy forest stands, providing essential brooding, nesting, and winter habitats.
  • Easement Agreements: Securing land through conservation easements ensures long-term protection of critical habitats.

These efforts not only benefit bobwhite quail but also enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and sequester carbon. Additionally, they offer economic advantages to landowners by reducing input costs and increasing yields.

Looking Ahead

The success of the WLFW Bobwhite Initiative underscores the importance of collaborative, landscape-scale conservation. By integrating wildlife habitat restoration into working landscapes, the program demonstrates that conservation and agriculture can go hand in hand. As the initiative progresses, it serves as a model for future conservation efforts, ensuring that species like the bobwhite quail continue to thrive in America’s heartland.

For more information on the WLFW program and how to get involved, visit the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership’s website.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

Elk in the East: A Remarkable Conservation Comeback

Once nearly extinct in the eastern United States, elk have made a remarkable return to the Appalachian region, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. In the 1990s, Tennessee and Kentucky initiated reintroduction programs, releasing elk into the Cumberland Plateau’s reclaimed mine lands. These areas, once barren, have transformed into thriving habitats for elk, demonstrating the power of habitat restoration in wildlife conservation.

The success of these programs is evident in the flourishing elk populations across the region. In Tennessee, the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area has become a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe elk in their natural habitat. Similarly, Kentucky’s elk herds have expanded, with the state now boasting one of the largest elk populations in the eastern U.S.

Collaborations between state agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities have been instrumental in this success. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and The Nature Conservancy have played pivotal roles in monitoring elk populations, managing habitats, and ensuring sustainable coexistence between elk and human activities. These partnerships highlight the importance of collective action in achieving conservation goals.

The return of elk to the Appalachians is not just a triumph for wildlife but also for local communities. Ecotourism has flourished, with visitors drawn to the region’s natural beauty and the chance to witness elk in the wild. This influx of tourists has provided economic benefits, supporting local businesses and fostering a deeper appreciation for the area’s ecological heritage.

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However, the journey is ongoing. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management are essential to address challenges such as disease management, human-wildlife conflicts, and habitat preservation. The presence of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in some elk populations underscores the need for vigilant health surveillance and proactive measures to mitigate its spread.

The story of elk’s return to the eastern U.S. serves as a testament to the resilience of nature and the effectiveness of collaborative conservation efforts. It underscores the significance of restoring native species and habitats, not only for ecological balance but also for the cultural and economic well-being of communities. As we look to the future, the continued success of elk reintroduction in the Appalachians will depend on sustained commitment, informed management, and a shared vision for a harmonious coexistence between wildlife and people.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

Sheep Grazing Threatens Bighorns, Court Says

In a major win for wildlife conservation, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled against the U.S. Forest Service’s approval of domestic sheep grazing in Colorado’s Rio Grande National Forest. The court found that the Forest Service violated federal law by downplaying scientific evidence that showed grazing posed a serious disease risk to wild bighorn sheep – an iconic and vulnerable species in the Rocky Mountain West.

At the center of the case was the Wishbone Allotment, a grazing area greenlit in 2018 despite warnings from government scientists years earlier. Studies in 2013 and 2015 flagged domestic sheep as a high-risk source of fatal pathogens – specifically Mannheimia haemolytica and Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae. These bacteria, which typically do not harm domestic sheep, can be devastating to wild bighorn populations. Infected bighorns can suffer pneumonia outbreaks that wipe out large portions of herds, sometimes resulting in long-term population collapse.

The court concluded that the Forest Service failed to follow its own risk assessments and misrepresented the potential for disease transmission. Conservation groups, including Western Watersheds Project and WildEarth Guardians, argued that the agency manipulated the science to justify continued grazing, endangering not only the bighorns but the ecological balance of the region.

This legal decision reinforces a broader truth: land management decisions must be grounded in credible science, not political or economic convenience. Public lands serve as habitat for countless native species, and decisions made today will echo for decades across ecosystems.

The ruling also reflects the power of environmental advocacy and legal oversight. Without the persistence of conservation groups and the backing of the judicial system, the risks to bighorn sheep may have gone unchecked. This isn’t just a victory for a single species – it’s a step toward more responsible stewardship of public lands.

Relevant Reading | The What And Why Of Wildlife Harvesting

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep are not only a symbol of the state’s natural heritage but also a vital part of the local ecosystem. They deserve protection from preventable threats, especially those stemming from conflicting land uses like livestock grazing.

This case serves as a reminder that conservation isn’t passive – it requires active defense against short-sighted policy decisions. As we look toward the future, ensuring that public land policies are shaped by evidence and ecological integrity is crucial.

Wildlife and wild places can’t speak for themselves. Thankfully, in this case, the court did.

By Conservation Frontlines
May 29, 2025

Axis Deer and Hawaii’s Conservation Struggle

Hawaii’s delicate ecosystems are under serious threat from a fast-growing population of invasive Axis deer (Axis axis). Originally introduced to Maui in 1959 for hunting, these animals have multiplied rapidly due to the absence of natural predators. What started as a controlled introduction has now turned into a full-blown crisis, causing widespread damage to both the environment and agriculture.

Environmental Fallout

Axis deer aren’t picky eaters – they consume everything from native plants to crops, stripping the land bare as they go. This constant overbrowsing has led to the decline of native forests, increased soil erosion, and the spread of invasive plant species. In places like Kahikinui on Maui, the situation is especially dire: native understory plants are vanishing, and their disappearance is making it easier for diseases like Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death – a fungal infection devastating ʻōhiʻa trees – to spread. On top of that, the deer’s feeding habits are preventing forest canopy species from regenerating, threatening the long-term health of Hawaii’s ecosystems.

Impact on Agriculture and Local Economies

The problem doesn’t stop with the environment. Axis deer are wreaking havoc on agriculture too. Farmers and ranchers are reporting serious losses as the deer devour crops and compete with livestock for limited forage. In times of drought, the issue gets even worse – the deer venture into residential and farming areas in search of food and water, intensifying the pressure on already strained resources. For many landowners, the cost of dealing with the damage is becoming unsustainable.

Difficulties in Control

Managing the axis deer population is no easy task. Experts estimate that about 18,000 deer need to be removed every year just to keep the population from growing – a number far beyond what current efforts are achieving. While hunting and fencing have been used as control methods, they haven’t been enough. Fencing can work in small, specific areas but is expensive and hard to implement across Hawaii’s rugged and varied terrain. Meanwhile, the deer are proving highly adaptable, making eradication a huge challenge.

Community Action and Partnerships

Recognizing the growing threat, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) has teamed up with the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to tackle the issue. Together, they’ve opened up lands traditionally reserved for building homes for Native Hawaiians to legal hunting. This allows more targeted population control while giving communities a chance to reclaim damaged land. Residents have been vocal about the toll the deer have taken, and this partnership is a step toward restoring both the land and cultural values tied to it.

Relevant Reading | The Tough Choices Of Saving Wildlife

The Bigger Picture

The axis deer crisis in Hawaii is a clear example of how introducing non-native species can spiral out of control. It’s also a lesson in the importance of ongoing, science-based management and meaningful community involvement. Conservation can’t succeed in a vacuum – it has to be rooted in collaboration, cultural awareness, and long-term thinking.

By Conservation Frontlines
Pronghorn Antelope
May 29, 2025

The Pronghorn Antelope Path: Securing Success in Wyoming

Wyoming’s pronghorn antelope, renowned as North America’s fastest land mammals, undertake a remarkable 200-mile migration each spring and fall between Grand Teton National Park and the Green River Valley. This journey, the longest terrestrial migration in the contiguous United States, is fraught with challenges. Pronghorns must navigate rough terrains, scale elevations, and cross water bodies, all while contending with human-made obstacles such as highways, subdivisions, and private ranchlands. These bottlenecks significantly hinder their migration, threatening their survival and the ecological balance of the region.

Pronghorn Antelope Conservation Efforts: Protecting Critical Habitat

Recognizing the urgency of preserving the pronghorn antelope migration route, The Conservation Fund, in collaboration with various partners, has taken decisive action. A pivotal initiative involved securing a 3,409-acre conservation easement on the Carney Ranch, a significant bottleneck in the pronghorns’ path. This easement ensures that the land remains undeveloped, preserving a critical segment of the migration corridor. The project was made possible through funding from the Acres for America program, a partnership between Walmart and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, along with contributions from the Jonah Interagency Office, Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative, Wyoming Wildlife & Natural Resources Trust, and The Nature Conservancy, supported by a grant from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. The Carney family also made a substantial donation to the project, underscoring their commitment to conservation. 

Pronghorn Antelope Ecological Significance of the Protected Land

The conserved land is situated within the southern part of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, an area of immense ecological importance. It serves as a vital link between the Bridger-Teton National Forest and other protected areas, facilitating wildlife movement and genetic exchange. The property boasts diverse habitats, including 25 glacial-pothole wetland ponds and over two miles of Green River frontage. These features provide seasonal habitats for various species, including elk, moose, mule deer, greater sage grouse, and trumpeter swans.

Pronghorn Antelope Legacy and Future Outlook

John Carney, President of the Carney Ranch Company, reflects on the family’s long-standing commitment to the land: “Our family has watched the pressures of civilization impact this valley since 1963. The persistent effort of The Conservation Fund has helped our large extended family to realize my parents’ dream to preserve this beautiful place. We are grateful to be able to leave this ranch as part of our legacy for the future.” 

This conservation success story highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving critical wildlife corridors. By protecting the pronghorn antelope’s migration path, we not only ensure the survival of this iconic species but also maintain the ecological integrity of one of America’s most cherished landscapes.

Relevant Reading | What Are Three Ways To Improve Wildlife Conservation?

 

By Conservation Frontlines
May 27, 2025

Rewilding the UK: Bringing Back the Elk

In a groundbreaking conservation effort, wildlife experts in the East Midlands are working to reintroduce the Eurasian elk to the UK for the first time in approximately 3,000 years. This ambitious project, led by the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Wildlife Trusts, has secured £15,000 in funding from Rewilding Britain to conduct feasibility studies on the elk’s return.

The Role of Elk in Ecosystems

Elk are considered “keystone” species due to their significant impact on the environment. Historically, they roamed across the UK, particularly in wetlands like the Trent, reed beds, pools, woods, and grasslands. Their presence helped maintain diverse habitats for various species. However, they were hunted to extinction during the Neolithic era.

Challenges and Public Engagement

One of the primary challenges is public perception. Many people are unfamiliar with the idea that elk were once native to the UK. To address this, the project plans to engage with local communities through consultations and educational initiatives. Drawing inspiration from the successful reintroduction of beavers, the team aims to inform and excite residents about the elk’s return.

Health and Safety Considerations

A crucial aspect of the project is ensuring that the reintroduced elk do not pose health risks to existing livestock. The funding will support disease risk assessments to study potential interactions between elk and local animals. This proactive approach aims to prevent any adverse effects on agriculture and local ecosystems.

Looking Ahead

The reintroduction of elk is part of a broader movement towards rewilding, which seeks to restore natural habitats and biodiversity. By reintroducing species like the elk, conservationists hope to create more resilient ecosystems that can support a wide range of wildlife. While challenges remain, the project represents a hopeful step towards restoring the UK’s natural heritage.

The effort to bring elk back to the UK highlights the importance of rewilding in modern conservation strategies. Through careful planning, community involvement, and scientific research, the project aims to restore a piece of the UK’s natural history and promote a healthier environment for future generations.

By Conservation Frontlines
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