Earlier this week, the Associated Press circulated an article about the present condition of the wolves and moose in Michigan’s Isle Royale National Park.  Excerpts and link:

The study, which is considered the longest-running study of its kind in the world, found that the number of wolves on the lake’s biggest island have increased from 21 in 2007 to 23 in 2008 and grew from three to four packs.

An estimated 385 moose were found on the island last year. This year’s count was estimated at 650, according to the study.

Moose have been on the island located 15 miles off Grand Portage since about 1900. Their population peaked in 1995 at 2,445, and last year’s 385 represent the lowest count.

Wolves arrived on the island in 1949 after crossing winter ice. The lowest count was 11 in 1993, and the highest was 50 in 1980.

Moose are more difficult to count than wolves, and researchers said difficult conditions last year may have resulted in undercounting.

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