The Real Wolf: The Science, Politics, and Economics of Co-Existing with Wolves in Modern Times

How have thriving elk populations of thousands dwindled to mere hundreds in just a matter of years? Author Ted B. Lyon asserts the wolf is at fault. He also blames the wolf for the rampant spread of infectious diseases among livestock populations and the decimation of wild deer, moose, sheep, and domestic animals alike. A trial lawyer with over 37 years of litigation experience, Lyon proves his case in The Real Wolf: The Science, Politics, and Economics of Co-Existing with Wolves in Modern Times. In this detailed yet easy-to-read essay collection, authors Ted B. Lyon and Will N. Graves investigate the majesty and myths surrounding wolves in the United States and offer a new, true picture of the wolf in contemporary America. The Real Wolf is an in-depth study of the impact wolves as a federally protected species have had on big game and livestock populations. Each chapter in the book is meticulously researched and written by authors and scientists who have spent years studying wolves and wolf behavior. Contributing authors Rob Arnaud, Dr. Arthur Bergerud, Karen Budd-Falen, Jess Carey, Dr. Matthew A. Cronin, Dr. Valerius Geist, Don Peay, Laura Schneberger, Heather Smith-Thomas, and Cat Urbigkit each describe a unique aspect of the wolf in the United States. The Real Wolf does not call for the eradication of wolves from the United States, but rather advocates a new system of species management that would allow wolves, game animals, and farmers to live in harmony.

An attorney specializing in complex litigation with over 37 years of experience, Ted Lyon has represented clients in more than 150 jury trials and was named one of the top 100 lawyers in America by the American Trial Lawyers Association 2007 through 2013. Ted served in both the Texas House of Representatives (1979-1983) and the Texas State Senate (1983-1993). He has also been a police officer, a licensed fishing and hunting guide, and a teacher. Ted has received numerous prestigious awards, including the 2012 Teddy Roosevelt Conservationist of the Year award.

At the outbreak of the Korean War, Will Graves volunteered for the U.S. Air Force and was trained as a Russian linguist. To accelerate and develop his skills in Russian, he started to read Russian wildlife magazines and books. Wolves were often discussed, and soon his interest became focused on wolves in Russia. He asked every native Russian he met if they had any knowledge of wolves and began to record data and resources. Graves' interest in wolves grew into a serious hobby that continued after the war.