Next science talk will explore the lives of wolves

Published 4:18 pm Wednesday, June 4, 2014

The Vashon Allied Arts’ Science Series continues with a talk called “Wolves: Predator vs. Prey” at 7 p.m. Sunday at The Blue Heron.

The speaker is Aaron Wirsing, Ph.D. and assistant professor of Wildlife Ecology in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington. His research focuses on predator and prey interactions and how large predators can reshape ecosystems.

Gray wolves have had a long history of being feared and hunted for their attacks on livestock. The animal is also venerated for its intelligence and complex social structures. In 2008, gray wolves began naturally recolonizing Washington after an absence of 80 years. Wirsing investigates the re-emergence of this top predator.