Why is the Fish and Wildlife Service introducing the red wolf, a predator, into eastern North Carolina?
The endangered red wolf once ranged throughout the Southeast, but now is threatened with extinction. By 1970, fewer than 100 individuals remained in the wild in Texas and Louisiana. Eastern North Carolina was once part of the red wolf¹s historic habitat, and may again be able to provide the conditions necessary for its survival. At present, in 2008, there are over 100 red wolves in the wild in North Carolina. Also, if mega fauna, such as wolves, are able to survive and reproduce within an ecosystem, that provides us with an excellent indication of environmental quality. Predators, like the red wolf, help maintain balance in an ecosystem by controlling populations of prey species and removing unhealthy animals. Where can I go to see a wolf or bear? The chances of seeing a wolf are slim. During some seasons, bear may be observed with some regularity. Weekly, during the summer, a guided ³Sunset Tour² begins at Creef Cut Trailhead on U.S. 64 in East Lake. Participants receive an orientatio
