Relocated Isle Royale wolves form groups, reduce moose herd

Scientists say gray wolves that were taken to Michigan’s Isle Royale National Park to rebuild its nearly extinct population are forming social groups, staking out territory and apparently mating

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Gray wolves that were taken to Michigan’s Isle Royale National Park to rebuild its nearly extinct population are forming social groups, staking out territory and apparently mating — promising signs despite heavy losses from natural causes and deadly fights, scientists said Monday.

They’ve also achieved a primary goal of the reintroduction initiative by reducing the park’s moose herd, which has become too big for its own good, researchers with Michigan Technological University said.

“They’re having no trouble finding and preying on moose, and that’s really significant,” said wildlife ecologist Rolf Peterson, who has spent decades…