The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service reintroduced 14 wolves from Canada to Yellowstone in January 1995. In 1996, an additional 17 wolves were released.
Since their reintroduction, the wolf population in Yellowstone has grown and fluctuated, with extensive monitoring and research conducted to understand their impact on the ecosystem.
Wolves have reduced and redistributed the elk population, which has allowed overgrazed areas to recover.
Willows, aspens, and other vegetation have started to regenerate, benefiting other species such as beavers and birds.
Increased vegetation has led to greater biodiversity, including a resurgence in beaver populations, which create wetlands that support a wide variety of species.
Continuous research and monitoring are conducted to understand the long-term impacts of wolf reintroduction and to manage the population effectively.