Re: [PyrNet-L] Re: introduction of Wolves into Yellowstone

[darrell goolsbee <dgg@star-telegram.com>]

<<Since our Pyrs. seem to tend to worry prey off ( making it easier for
> them to go elsewhere rather than bother the Pyrs. flock ) , and since
> most prey animals are bigger than our Pyrs. and heavier, even black
> bears.  As I read it they work and worry the prey more often than they
> are called upon to get into an out and out attack.>>


There is a critical distinction to be made here that separates wolves
from other predators that Pyrs face and makes them MUCH more dangerous.

Other predators are after the livestock and may be deterred by the Pyrs'
mere presence. Hmmm. Big dog here, let's find an easier meal. That may
well be the case much of the time with wolves as well.

But the big difference is that at times the wolves are actually after
THE DOGS. The goal being to eliminate the dogs from their territory, not
just kill the sheep they protect.

Combine that drive with the strong pack bond that wolves have and other
predators generally lack, as well as their size, and you have an
extremely dangerous foe and really a whole new ballgame. A new approach
may be needed if LGDs are to succeed in this type of situation.

It has been pointed out as well that one of the problems the dogs may be
having is that they were introduced AFTER the wolves, thus settling in
on established wolf territory and adding to their risk.

Darrell Goolsbee
Fort Worth, TX