David Mech has been researching wolves since 1958 and has authored hundreds of articles and 13 books on wolf behavior and ecology. From his decades of studying wolves across the globe, including Isle Royale, Minnesota, Canada, Italy, Alaska, Yellowstone, Ellesmere Island, and elsewhere, to modern wolf management and conservation, David has witnessed and helped shape decades of evolving scientific understanding. In our deep dive interview with David, hear some of his key learnings, from the now-debunked "alpha wolf" concept to the nuanced realities of predator-prey dynamics and trophic cascades, along with his views on the complexities of managing wolves in human-dominated landscapes.

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The Institute for Science & Policy is a catalyst for thoughtful dialogue, working toward solutions for society's greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity. The Institute is a project of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Credits:

Reporting, writing, hosting: Kristan Uhlenbrock

Editing, production, marketing: Tricia Waddell

Editing, fact-checking, production: Jordan Marks

Additional research: Kate Long

Sound design: Seth Samuel

Original music: Composed and performed by Brett Kretzer. Fiddle played by Andy Reiner. Banjo and backing vocals by Dr. Joy Adams.

Additional music: Epidemic Sound

Gray Territory BONUS: Saint or Sinner | Interview with Wolf Biologist David Mech