The population of endangered gray wolves in California is growing, but some locals are raising concerns over safety and economic losses.
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Gray wolves were extinct in California for nearly a century
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Since their return to the state began in 2011, the region's population of this endangered species now thrives
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though some residents claim they have been negatively impacted as a result of the animals' increased numbers
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In the past month, three Northern California counties have taken formal steps
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to combat the potential threat of wolves in their communities. MODOK and Sierra counties declared local emergencies
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while Lassen County requested state intervention to manage this problem. As people living in these areas are voicing concerns about their safety and livelihood
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Officials assert the predators are venturing alarmingly close to homes, parks, and playgrounds
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The wolves will often prey on cattle and other farm animals, prompting the state of California to pay millions of dollars to ranchers for compensation
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No attacks on humans have been recorded, but law enforcement authorities believe the animals no longer perceive humans as a threat
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Warning, this could lead to dangerous interactions. County leaders say they feel powerless to protect residents from the risks posed by wolves
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because state and federal protections currently prevent direct lethal action against these animals an act that is punishable by up to one year in prison and a fine In response to mounting concerns the California
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Department of Fish and Wildlife is considering changes in management strategies. The agency is
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reviewing the gray wolf status under the state's Endangered Species Act and proposing new methods
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to deter wolves, including the use of rubber bullets and motorized vehicles to chase them away
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Conservationists have argued against this move, claiming the fears surrounding wolves are overstated
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with a senior wolf advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity adding
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quote, just because you're afraid of a wolf doesn't mean wolves are a threat
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However, California's official gray wolf coordinator acknowledges the state has reached a new phase in its management of these animals
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asserting their population is now larger and more secure. Meanwhile, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is also working to improve coexistence measures
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including increasing the number of GPS-collared wolves to monitor their movements and investing in habitat improvements for native prey species
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so the animals are less likely to venture into areas frequented by humans for their food
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For Straight Arrow News, I'm Jack Elmer
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