When we think of large predators, such as wolves, what springs to mind? Do we think of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf? Or huge grizzly bears? Beings that are dangerous and destructive. The forest is dark and scary, and we shiver when we hear the wolves howl. Or do we see them as curious remnants of a more primitive era, now seen more often in zoos than in the wild. We may shake our heads in dismay when we read about decreasing populations and loss of habitat. But then we go back to our usual daily business.

In reality, predators are an important part of any ecosystem. This is especially true for apex predators, the animals at the top of the food chain. Their behavior stimulates a ripple effect that includes many other animals as well as plants. This is the reason that conservationists in several countries are advocating for reintroducing them into nature reserves and wilderness areas. 

This is a controversial position to hold, however, and frequently people object to animals such as wolves and bears being reestablished in areas where they had been previously wiped out. Some concerns of reintroducing predators are understandable. There is the fear of the predators themselves, especially if they wander close to or in urban areas. Even if they keep their distance from people, just the thought of predators can cause people to be afraid to go outside. Understandably, people in rural areas fear for the safety of their livestock, pets, and even humans. For example, many people in Scotland are concerned that reintroducing wolves into the Scottish Highlands will interfere with wildcat conservation. And there is a huge controversy in Sweden over the reintroduction of wolves into the landscape.

So why do it? Why can’t nature exist without scary predators? Wouldn't that make it safer for humans, like hikers and park rangers?  Why have gray wolves in Yellowstone National Park in the US at all? Because they are apex predators, and thus play a crucial role in maintaining the health of an ecosystem. By preventing any one species from becoming too numerous, apex predators help maintain biodiversity. This one change at the top of the food chain causes a domino effect, called a “trophic cascade” all the way down. The predators help control the numbers of herbivores and smaller carnivores. This prevents overgrazing or overhunting of other species. It gives trees a chance to grow tall and berry bushes to regenerate.

Apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and health of an ecosystem. Their primary role is to regulate the populations of prey species, which can have far-reaching effects on the food web. In addition, predators indirectly support the capture and storing of carbon by maintaining ecosystem balance, allowing plant life to flourish, which in turn enhances the planet's ability to absorb and store carbon. This is an example of how maintaining healthy ecosystems can help with actions to fight climate change.