The Value of Wolves Throughout their original homelands
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Before its persecution by humans, the wolf (Canis lupus) had the greatest distribution of any land mammal in the world except man. Its immense range included most of North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Wolves were exterminated from much of this vast area, however they have now returned to many localities where they formerly lived. Nevertheless, intense and violent persecution of wolves continues to this day.
Ironically, many of the people who passionately exterminate wolves and act as though the wolf is “humanity’s greatest enemy,” are at the same time loving dog owners who regard the dog, a descendent of the wolf, to be “man’s best friend.” Their attitudes seem especially contradictory when one considers the fact that pet dogs, like wolves, sometimes kill livestock and other pets (see below).
via The Value of Wolves: Why it is important to preserve these predators..