Eastern US Wildlife Makes a Comeback

Andrew Moore’s new book, “Beasts of the East,” details the surprising recovery of wildlife populations across the U.S. East Coast.

Despite a long history of human settlement and urbanization, species like elk, moose, bear, and bison are rebounding through reintroduction programs, ecological restoration, and ambitious conservation efforts. Moore highlights the importance of imagination and policy in envisioning and achieving these recoveries, citing the Nachusa Grasslands project in Illinois, which successfully reintroduced American bison, as a prime example.

The book also addresses challenges to continued success, including social acceptance of large mammals like elk due to potential conflicts with agriculture and vehicle collisions. Connectivity between habitats remains a concern as development continues to fragment wild areas, particularly in regions like South Florida where the endangered Florida panther faces ongoing habitat loss. Moore argues that while ecological conditions often support reintroduction, securing public support and prioritizing species for restoration are critical next steps for a truly wilder East.