Authorities ponder options for dwindling Isle Royale wolves

Isle Royale wolves prepare to attack a bull moose
In this 2008 photo provided by Michigan Tech University, a wolf pack is seen preparing to attack a bull moose on Isle Royale. The moose successfully fought off the wolves and survived.
AP Photo/Michigan Tech University, John Vucetich

For decades, populations of moose and wolves have lived in balance on Isle Royale, a wilderness island in Lake Superior. Now the wolves are in danger of dying out, apparently because of a lack of genetic diversity. For the first time in the half-century that scientists have been observing the wolves, no new pups were born this year.

The National Park Service is considering various options, including the introduction of new wolves to the island. We discuss the choices facing the park service.

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