Endangered wolves thrive in California, but residents are raising concerns

Gray wolves were extinct in California for nearly a century

Since their return to the state began in 2011, the region's population of this endangered species now thrives

though some residents claim they have been negatively impacted as a result of the animals' increased numbers

In the past month, three Northern California counties have taken formal steps

to combat the potential threat of wolves in their communities. MODOK and Sierra counties declared local emergencies

while Lassen County requested state intervention to manage this problem. As people living in these areas are voicing concerns about their safety and livelihood

Officials assert the predators are venturing alarmingly close to homes, parks, and playgrounds

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

No attacks on humans have been recorded, but law enforcement authorities believe the animals no longer perceive humans as a threat

Warning, this could lead to dangerous interactions. County leaders say they feel powerless to protect residents from the risks posed by wolves

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

Department of Fish and Wildlife is considering changes in management strategies. The agency is

reviewing the gray wolf status under the state's Endangered Species Act and proposing new methods

to deter wolves, including the use of rubber bullets and motorized vehicles to chase them away

Conservationists have argued against this move, claiming the fears surrounding wolves are overstated

with a senior wolf advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity adding

quote, just because you're afraid of a wolf doesn't mean wolves are a threat

However, California's official gray wolf coordinator acknowledges the state has reached a new phase in its management of these animals

asserting their population is now larger and more secure. Meanwhile, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is also working to improve coexistence measures

including increasing the number of GPS-collared wolves to monitor their movements and investing in habitat improvements for native prey species

so the animals are less likely to venture into areas frequented by humans for their food

For Straight Arrow News, I'm Jack Elmer