Wolf Land : The Lost Wolves of Landscape and Lore

Separating fiction from fact, Wolf Land delves into the history of wolves in Britain and Ireland, tracing their spoors through the mountains, fens, and forests of these islands, as well as the cultural landscapes across which they have left their indelible, inky pawprints.

Wolf Land traces the lives of the wolves that once called Britain and Ireland home. Beginning with the Ice Age, each chapter considers a key period in the history of wolves on these islands. Describing the landscapes they traversed, their relationship with the ever-growing human population, and the ways in which humans weaved wolves throughout every aspect of their cultural lives, from literature and art to religion and politics. Building on this history, Wolf Land concludes by reflecting on the parts of this story yet to be written, asking whether wolves could once again make Britain and Ireland their home. There is no better time for understanding the complex, multifaceted ecology of wolves in Britain and Ireland. Calls for widespread nature restoration and the reintroduction of apex predators necessitate a thorough understanding of the history of this animal, as well as the reasons why the species ultimately disappeared. Only by thoroughly comprehending the past can we hope to forge a future that involves wolves. Elizabeth Marshall is an expert in historical and literary research, with extensive knowledge of wolf ethology, ecology, and reintroduction. Passionate about critically examining and tracing historical sources, Elizabeth separates fact from the (ubiquitous) fiction associated with these animals. Wolf Land is a book for not only wolf lovers and natural and cultural history enthusiasts, but also for those interested in rewilding, reintroduction, and the complex yet fascinating relationship between nature and culture.