It is true that wolves are keystone species and that they are important to the balance and biodiversity of the ecosystem. However, are they the only answer – the magic answer to changes in the ecosystem in Yellowstone?

Recent scientific research suggests that the impact of wolves on the ecosystem is more complex and may not be solely responsible for the observed changes, with some studies claiming that the "trophic cascade" narrative is exaggerated or not entirely accurate. While wolves have played a role in the observed ecosystem changes, additional factors such as weather, drought, harsh winters, other predators (bears and mountain lions), and human hunting also contributed to the decline of the Yellowstone elk herd and changes relating to this decline. 

As beavers returned, the dams and ponds they created helped the growth of trees like willows. The bison population has increased and they are overgrazing – so there remains a problem of overgrazing. Whether the ecosystem will ever go back to what it was we don’t know. Ecosystems are very complex. We do know that many areas of the Yellowstone ecosystem are healthier and more biodiverse thanks to many pieces of this puzzle.

 

Resource - Colorado State University Ecological Effects of Wolves

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