Range riders stay with the herd to keep a watchful eye for predators—a classic technique dating back centuries that is effective but labor intensive.

Montana Outdoors | September - October 2026 Ranches with wolves

Cattle and sheep producers are experimenting with ancient and futuristic methods to keep large carnivores away from livestock.

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Wolves have reestablished packs across much of western Montana over the past three decades, and over time, most (but not all) have learned that livestock aren’t worth the trouble. Photo by David Hoffmann/Shutterstock

Ranches with Wolves Livestock producers are experimenting with ancient and futuristic methods to keep large carnivores away.

Sagebrush wildfire fueled by invasive grasses. Photo courtesy of The Rocky Mountain Research Station

Bad Seeds Invasive grasses pose a grave threat to native plants and wildlife.

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The Point The initiation of an unlikely bird dog.

Short-eared owl photo by Donald M. Jones

Super Senses Animals see, hear, smell, and feel entire worlds humans don’t even know exist.

DNA illustration by shutter stock

Decoding Nature's Fingerprints FWP’s first full-time wildlife geneticist is helping forge a new path for the agency’s genetic wildlife research.

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