Discover the truth behind the myths and misconceptions about wolves with our special guest, Regina Mossotti, Vice President of Animal Care at the Saint Louis Zoo. Regina brings her wealth of experience to our conversation, sharing insider stories from her work with red wolf and Mexican grey wolf recovery programs. She unveils the shy, curious nature of wolves, challenging the cultural fear fueled by their negative portrayal in popular media. Prepare to shift your perspective as we explore how these misunderstood creatures prefer to avoid human contact and play a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems.

Wolves can have a transformative impact on their surroundings, as exemplified by the reintroduction of gray wolves in Yellowstone National Park. We navigate the historical journey of wolf conservation, from the near eradication of wolves in the late 1800s and early 1900s to contemporary efforts focused on carnivore conservation across North America. Regina's insights emphasize the critical role wolves play in sustaining healthy animal and plant populations, highlighting the often-overlooked significance of these majestic creatures in preserving biodiversity within the United States.

Collaboration and innovation take center stage as we uncover initiatives that foster coexistence between humans and wolves. From the "Prey for the Pack" program in North Carolina to the revival of livestock guardian dogs, we explore creative strategies that transform community perceptions and encourage local support for wildlife conservation. Regina shares inspiring stories of collaboration among diverse stakeholders, illustrating the power of dialogue and cooperation in achieving conservation goals. Join us as we celebrate the passion and dedication driving the ongoing efforts to safeguard the future of wolves and their ecosystems.

Links:
Regina Mossotti
Saint Louis Zoo
Red Wolf Breeding Program
Endangered Wolf Center
USFWS Red Wolf Recovery Program
Prey for the Pack