Climate change has created dangerously low oxygen levels in the ocean, causing problems for creatures and the communities that rely on them.
Wildlife
Should we clone the black-footed ferret?
From petri dish to prairie with North America’s most endangered species.
Wyoming politicians hatch a plan to continue sage grouse game farms
New legislation to extend a controversial practice is ruffling feathers in Wyoming.
The legend of the horned rabbit of the West
Jackalopes have migrated from Wyoming across the nation, but what’s really known about the mythical creature?
Can a modified invasive trout save the cutthroat?
To eliminate invasive fish species, scientists have created a ‘Trojan’ brook trout that’s intended to help native fish in the West.
A new tundra, engineered by beavers
Once nonexistent in northwest Alaska, beavers are both benefiting from and changing a warming tundra.
5 things to know about gray wolves regaining Endangered Species Act protection
Most importantly: The recent relisting doesn’t apply to the Rocky Mountains.
Montana mice may hold the secret to how viruses spread
Researchers are studying how climate change and biodiversity affect viruses’ jump from animals to people.
Wolf hazing legalized in Colorado
Colorado wildlife officials are planning for reintroduction. A wolf pack is complicating their efforts.
When the little owl vanishes
A writer reflects on parenthood and what to talk about when confronting extinction.
See the Channel Islands’ stunning ecological recovery
The conservation success story is an example of what decades of work can accomplish.
Humble suckers: Pacific lamprey have survived 5 mass extinctions but are now under threat
Cooperative efforts between tribes and non-Native institutions are helping conserve the under-researched Devonian darlings.
Biden’s ‘herky-jerky’ first year on Western issues
The new president sacrificed bold executive action to try to win over Congress.
Offshore oil rigs are a surprising safe haven
Marine life finds a home on the artificial reefs. What happens when the platforms are decommissioned?
Meet the influencer of the California condor world
During the pandemic, a chick named Iniko became an ambassador for conservation from her redwood nest.
Backroads backstrap
A law allowing Wyomingites to harvest roadkill goes into effect in 2022.
Stories we wish we’d written
A look at some of the journalism from 2021 that inspired us, made us feel seen, and, sometimes, even made us cry.
Where are Alaska’s snowy owls?
The birds serve as an alarm bell for the repercussions of environmental change.
The emotional lives of wolves
Biologist Rick McIntyre uses anthropomorphism to tell the story of his subjects.
An owl army, a tire-less elk and a minor coup attempt
Mishaps and mayhem from around the region.
