The Evolution of Predator Control Policy in the National Parks
Cahalane VH. 1939. The Evolution of Predator Control Policy in the National Parks. The Journal of Wildlife Management. 3(3):229-237
It is evident that the national park predator policy in its various stages of development over the past 67 yeas has, on the whole, reflected the most advanced thought on the subject. Changes have been necessitated by special legal or natural limitations, and effected also by public sentiment and facts brought to light by scientific inquiry. Unfortunately the rapid recovery of hoofed mammals following near-extermination early in the twentieth century was but imperfectly perceived and predators were persecuted in the parks for at least a decade after they had become vitally necessary to maintenance of a balance. Our present problems of over-grazed ranges are in considerable measure due to this lag in human perception of cause and efect. A forecast of future trends is brightened by the knowledge that many past difficulties can be avoided by adherence to the policy of basing protection entirely on scientific investigation and ascertained facts. Predator management policies of Yellowstone National Park are discussed.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Cahalane, Victor
- Units
- GLAC , HOSP
- Keywords
- Animals, Fauna, Federal Land, Mammals, Vertebrate fauna, Wildlife Management, Zoology