Today a round-up of some news about local fauna that are plentiful (or at least have become more so):
Gray Wolves Are Back
After a 70-year absence, gray wolves returned to Oregon a dozen years ago under the protection of the U.S. Endangered Species Act. There are now at least 178 in Oregon and are no longer endangered. Wolf attacks on livestock have risen according to the most recent data, and ranchers still aren’t fans of their impact on their herds and bottom lines. One interesting note: Oregon’s wolves wandered into the state from Idaho after the Nez Perce tribe helped reintroduce wolves there. [KGW]
- Related: KGW is running a series on the impacts of the Endangered Species Act if you’re interested to learn more.
The Thriving Orca Species
One species of orca is thriving in the Pacific Northwest. A record number of Bigg’s killer whales were spotted in October in the Salish Sea. That’s thanks in part to the Endangered Species Act, which has helped grow the populations of mammals (including seals, sea lions, and porpoises) they feed on. [Tribune News via Oregonian]
Doggie Rehab
Plenty of animals who come through the Oregon Humane Society have had tough lives that require some extra love and care through a rehabilitation program before they’re ready for adoption. That includes Phyllis the pitbull, who has quickly learned some manners through the TLC of the Behavior Modification Program. (Disclosure: I’ve fostered kittens as an Oregon Humane Society volunteer.) [Portland Monthly]
- Related: Phyllis is available for adoption. [Oregon Humane Society]
