Studies have found that wolves in the Midwest and Canada not only keep deer populations in check, but they also alter deer behavior in ways that help prevent car crashes and save human lives.

Before the wolf was feared, it was revered. Native Americans wove wolves into their traditions, with some people regarding wolves as kin. But European colonists harbored no love for the wild animals that went after their cattle, pigs and other livestock.

Wolves use roads and trails “for basically the same reasons why people would use roads and trails,” Gable said. “Because it’s easier to cover more ground, more effectively.”