Format
1. Introduction to the International Wolf Center and ambassador wolves
2. Description of wolf reintroduction and the methods used by biologists
3. Discuss the biological and social impacts of wolf reintroduction
4. Review examples of wolf reintroduction in the U.S.
5. Question and answer time, with the opportunity to view ambassador wolves live on camera
Objectives
Participants will be able to:
- define the terms "reintroduction," "soft/hard release," "cross fostering," and "carrying capacity."
- explore the roles wolves play in their ecosystem and how reintroducing wolves can have an impact on ecosystems.
- explain what factors need to be considered for a wolf reintroduction and which methods may be best for that project.
- list at least one example of a wolf reintroduction and the progress of that reintroduction.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
NS.K-4.3 LIFE SCIENCE
As a result of their activities, all students should develop an understanding of:
• The characteristics of organisms
• Life cycles of organisms
• Organisms and environments
NS.5-8.3 LIFE SCIENCE
As a result of their activities, all students should develop an understanding of:
• Structure and function in living systems
• Regulation and behavior
• Populations and ecosystems
• Diversity and adaptations of organisms
NS.K-4.6 and NS.5-8.6 PERSONAL AND SOCIAL PERSPECTIVES
As a result of their activities, all students should develop an understanding of:
• Types of resources
• Changes in environments
• Populations, resources, and environments
NS.5-8.1 SCIENCE AS INQUIRY
As a result of their activities in grades 5-8, all students should develop:
• Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
• Understandings about scientific inquiry