Tag Archives: Rob Wiener

Wolves of Isle Royale offer unique opportunity to learn about predator-prey relationships

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Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Rob Wiener, Michigan State University Extension


The relationship of wolves and humans in the United States has been tumultuous. Prior to European settlement, wolves inhabited much of the North American continent. They were systematically eradicated, as settlers made their way west, being perceived as a threat to families and livelihoods. Habitat was also destroyed as part of the westward expansion, further stacking the deck against wolf viability. Today the American wolf population is a mere shadow of what it once was.


Whether you love them or hate them, studying wolves can be a great way to observe some of the dynamics that occur with any predator-prey relationship in nature. When it comes to wolves, there is perhaps no better place to learn about this relationship than on Lake Superior’s largest island, Isle Royale.


The island is part of Isle Royale National Park (actually one large island surrounded by many smaller islands), which protects about 450 square miles. In the late 1940s, wolves established themselves on the island via an ice bridge from Ontario. Since that time, biologists have been studying the interaction of the wolves and their primary prey source on the island, moose, making this the longest ongoing predator-prey research study in the world.


Researchers have observed the species dynamics and collected data throughout the years, seeing the wolf and moose populations fluctuate dramatically. At times, the wolf population on Isle Royale numbered as high as 50. High levels of predators mean that the prey populations (moose) are kept in check. Conversely, when the wolf populations were low, moose populations increased. Similarly, when moose populations are high, their food sources—balsam fir, aquatic plants—are impacted.


In 2016, the Isle Royale wolf population had dwindled to two animals, sparking a debate among scientists as to what to do next. On one hand, if new wolves were brought in, this long-running predator-prey study could continue. On the other hand, if new wolves are brought in, is the study still valid (since humans have now altered the variables)? In the end, the National Park Service decided to start introducing new wolves to the island in 2018, thus continuing the study. Up to 30 more wolves will be brought in over the next three years. 


Michigan State University Extension natural resource educators can offer more insight into predator-prey relationships.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).


Staying safe outdoors during tick season

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Center for Disease Control and Prevention graphic

By Rob Wiener, Michigan State University Extension


With the mild weather of spring upon us, many people are venturing into the outdoors after enduring a long, cold Michigan winter. While there are few better experiences for the soul than a walk in the woods, there are some precautions one should take to minimize the risk posed by ticks.


Although most bug bites are harmless, some people are prone to sensitivity from the biting insect’s saliva, which is recognized by the body as a foreign substance, prompting an immune response. The more you scratch it, the more it will itch as irritation and inflammation increases. Many over-the-counter products, or plain old rubbing alcohol, can reduce this itching and inflammation.


However, when it comes to ticks, there are some potentially dangerous ailments that can be transmitted through bites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ticks can be infected with a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be passed on to humans through a bite. The most common of these is Lyme disease, first diagnosed in Lyme, Connecticut in 1975.


Lyme disease has been notoriously hard to diagnose, although the increased incidence of the disease has resulted in more awareness for both the patient and medical practitioner. Typical symptoms of possible Lyme infection include initial swelling and/or itching at the site of the bite, which many times progresses into an expanding rash (possibly forming a bulls-eye appearance). As the infection progresses, flu-like symptoms can present themselves, including headache, chills, fatigue, fever, and nausea. If left untreated, Lyme’s disease can cause permanent, debilitating neurological and joint problems.


The best defense against tick-borne illnesses is prevention. First, be aware of tick habitat and their methods for finding a host. Contrary to popular belief, ticks do not drop or jump on people (or animals)—they hang onto vegetation, waiting for something to brush against them, then latch on.  Brushy woods and tall grassy areas provide the best opportunities for ticks to accomplish this, so be especially vigilant when exploring these areas.


It is recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to provide fewer areas of exposed skin for ticks to latch onto. Additionally, since ticks usually crawl upwards, tucking pant legs into socks will increase the likelihood of seeing ticks on your pants rather than on your skin.


The CDC recommends treating clothing, boots, and outdoor gear with products containing permethrin. Insect repellents containing DEET or other Environmental Protection Agency-approved ingredients can be quite effective at repelling ticks.


Finally, don’t forget about pets. After venturing outdoors, be sure to thoroughly check your pet’s coat for any ticks. And, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to protect your pet from ticks.


Any ticks found attached (on you or pets) should be carefully removed with a fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and gently pull straight out, being careful not to dislodge the head into the skin.  Thoroughly wash the bite area, and monitor for signs of irritation or rash.


Visit Michigan State University Extension to learn more about forests and forest management.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).