Paul area don't have much contact with the wolf and think it should have full protection. Rural citizens have leaned toward hunting and trapping. Wolves have no natural enemies except humans, allowing their numbers to quickly multiply if left unchecked. Most know someone who has shot a wolf but decline to elaborate. One was given a year's probation.
Many farmers say it's worth the risk.
In 1997, farmers on 93 Minnesota farms filed wolf complaints with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Others insist wolves must be protected. Three adult gray wolves live at the center in northeastern Minnesota, about 20 miles from the Canadian border. About 300,000 visitors have come since the facility opened in 1993. They are a lot like humans.