It was just until about 100 years ago that there were wolves in every forest in Japan. The wolves were a vital part of the ecosystem of the forest along with other animals such as monkeys, deer, and wild boars. Since Japan was an agricultural nation until the Edo period (1603-1867), itfs people considered the wolf like a guardian god that got rid of the destructive animals that damaged crops. In North America and Europe, from a fear of wolves, they were massacred to extinction.

During the 20th century, mankind exploited nature to their gain, developing industries, which led to population explosions that, as a result, destroyed many creatures found in the forests and woods. Wolves were also threatened, and with a fewer number of wolves, the balance of the ecosystem had a negative effect on other animals. We must consider the consequences of our actions, and realize what we have done for our own personal gains.

Through efforts of concerned people, since 1970, there have been movements to protect wolves from becoming extinct in various parts of the world. In the US, they have successfully revived the population of wolves in several States. Slowly, we are seeing the return of wolves to nature, and witnessing the balance of nature return once more.

In 1993, The Japan WOLF Association was established to protect and revive wolves not only in Japan but also all over the world, and to resolve misunderstandings and prejudices of wolves.

JWA has been holding various activities, such as symposia, seminars, wolf-watching tours in America and Mongolia, and nature observation tours in Japan. At the same time, JWA has researched Japanesef consciousness of wolves through sending out questionnaires to the public, and also made requests several times to governors and Ministry of Environment for the reintroduction of wolves in Japan. Furthermore, JWA distributes magazines gForest Callh every year and booklets gForest Windsh four times a year.

Letfs get together and start thinking about Wolves, Nature, and their coexistence with Humans.