Presettlement Times

Relative to today, which species did the wildlife population consist of before European settlement, and how could such a question even be answered?  James Evrard, a noted wildlife biologist, authored a paper (see reference below) that responded to these challenges.  As to why this is important, restoration biologists have generally agreed that presettlement conditions are an important guide to a desired future.

First, the answer.  The species that existed in this area during presettlement times are by and large the same species that populate the area today.  The exceptions include an extinct species, the passenger pigeon, and several large mammals that are no longer found here.

Elk (wapiti), moose, and buffalo (bison) were historically found and hunted in areas near to the Bird Sanctuary.  In addition, some species such as sturgeon, pine marten, and mountain lion are now rarely seen.  As the population of these animals diminished over time, their ranges grew smaller.  This occurred as human settlement increased, and as the historic habitat was altered.  As an example, many plant and animal species rely on frequent forest/prairie fires -- which are now largely suppressed.

As to how the question was answered, think back to the "scientific method" which is usually taught as part of ninth grade science.  Evrard considered three possible sources of historical information:  Native American oral history, archeological records, and written historical records.

Oral history proved to be unreliable because Native American traditions were severely damaged by the federal government in attempts to force this population into the dominant white culture.  Archeological excavation sites, including two fur-trading posts, produced specific identifiable animal remains.  Written records exist in the journals of French, English, and American explorers, fur traders, and missionaries, and an animal census was recorded.

Based on this evidence, some historic species, such as the fisher, trumpeter swan, and wild turkey, have returned with human help.  Some, such as the timber wolf, have returned with our newly acquired tolerance of wildlife species.  In the future, perhaps additional species such as the whooping crane will be reintroduced.

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This material is extracted from  "Presettlement Wildlife in Northwest Wisconsin Pine Barrens," Transactions of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters, Volume 88:23-35. James O. Evrard. 2000.  It is used with Mr. Evrard's written permission.