Genetic Crisis in Mexican Gray Wolf Population

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
Environmental groups warn of genetic crisis in wild Mexican gray wolf population despite growth in numbers. Inbreeding remains a threat to long-term survival.

Key Points

  • Increasing number of Mexican gray wolves in southwestern U.S.
  • Environmentalists warn of genetic crisis despite population growth
  • Efforts to release captive-born pups into the wild and broaden genetic pool

Pros

  • Growing wild Mexican gray wolf population
  • Success of genetic management using captive-born pups
  • Fostering of Mexican wolf pups showing positive results

Cons

  • Inbreeding and genetic crisis remains a threat
  • Challenges in releasing more captive wolf families due to resistance from ranchers and rural residents