Welcome wolves | The Salt Lake Tribune

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Re "Wolves need protection to fully recover" (Opinion, Sept. 7): I wish to thank authors Peter Metcalf and Doug Tompkins for their timely commentary in support of keeping wolves protected under the Endangered Species Act.

No other creature has been more reviled or ruthlessly persecuted than the wolf; or for so little reason. Wolves are nature's police force. They keep prey species fit and ecosystems healthy. In a deep sense they are the best friend that deer and elk ever had because they are partners in the dance of evolution.

I find it fascinating that the domestic dog, human beings' best friend, is loved above all other animals, while its progenitor the wolf is feared and hated more than all other animals. Surely this reveals more about people's insecurities than it does about wolves.

To make peace with wolves is to make peace with nature, and so also with ourselves. Utah wants wolves. Let's not shut the door on them. Let's welcome them back home.

Kirk Robinson

Salt Lake City