Gray wolves and grizzly bears have been the subject of intense debate ever since they received protection under the Endangered Species Act. However, human sentiments regarding top predators have been evolving for as long as the West has been inhabited. By looking at Native American and European beliefs about wolves and grizzlies, we can better understand what led to their decline and what needs to be done in order to preserve them. Human-predator conflicts are the leading cause for disdain towards top predators, and by overcoming the conflicts with the most practical strategies, recovery efforts will be more successful. Perspectives towards wolves and grizzlies have changed greatly over the last 150 years and recovery efforts will continue to progress as human perceptions of animals evolve.
