Wolves reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995–96 now number about 500, with scientists divided on their ecological impact despite their economic significance.

Wolves reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995–96 now number about 500, sparking debate over their ecological and economic effects. While some credit them with a trophic cascade that boosted willow growth by up to 1500%, a 2024 re-analysis challenges those claims, citing flawed modeling, circular reasoning, inconsistent data, and undercounted human hunting. The study finds weak evidence for strong cascades, though wolves remain ecologically significant. Ranchers continue to report livestock losses, and tourism revenue from wolf-watching remains substantial. Scientists disagree on the extent of wolves’ impact, with no consensus emerging.