Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Program - Claudio Sillero-Zubiri
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The Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Program has evolved from the hard work and dedication of a handful of conservationists and the local Ethiopian communities.
Dr. Claudio Sillero-Zubiri began his work with the Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis) 16 years ago, tracking and studying this rare red wolf through the highlands and mountains of Ethiopia. His passion for the wolf and its diverse habitat helped inspire others to get involved, and the people from surrounding communities joined in the efforts to help protect the wolf. Dr. Stuart Williams managed the EWCP in Ethiopia for the past four years and was extremely successful in working with the local communities and governments to increase the acceptance and protection for the wolf and for its unique Afro-alpine habitat. He worked closely with the people who share the wolf's land to help meet the needs of both.

Ethiopia is home to a variety of rare, endemic species. The Ethiopian wolf - the most endangered canid in the world - faces a variety of threats due to conflict with Ethiopia's ever-expanding human population. EWCP works with local herders and communities to reduce conflict with livestock, to protect wolves from hunting, and to reduce disease transfer from, and inbreeding with, local domestic dogs. With only an estimated 400-500 Ethiopian wolves left in a few isolated populations throughout the country, research and community involvement are crucial to the survival of this unique wolf.

EWCP works in conjunction with a team of scientists, teachers, veterinarians and others from the local communities and abroad to carry out effective conservation and education programs. EWCP teaches improved livestock husbandry, vaccinates and treats domestic dogs, and builds an awareness and understanding of the wolf's role in the local ecosystem.

The past years have proven very successful in expanding the programs from the headquarters in the Bale Mountain National Park to the northern areas of Ethiopia where a viable population of wolves still survives. Increased interest from the local governments and local conservationists promises a brighter future for the very rare Ethiopian wolf, its extraordinary mountain habitat and the people of Ethiopia.