Biology of wolves and Canada lynxes and their prey in pristine and restored ecosystems

Wolves (Canis lupus) and Canada Lynxes (Lynx canadensis) are on the Endangered Species List. Both inhabit pristine habitat in Minnesota, where it is possible and important to study their biology and interaction with their prey under natural conditions. These studies will allow managers and administrators to assess the progress of restoration and recovery of these species and anticipate biological and political problems that may arise during recovery. Most contentious is the issue of wolf interaction with their prey. Thus studies of wolf prey animals such as deer (Odocoileus virginianus), moose (Alces alces) and elk (Cervus elaphus) and the interactions of wolves with them are as important as investigatio [see Narratives for more information.]