Habitat fragmentation forces wolves to travel across dangerous lands, where there are highways and developed areas - some containing livestock. This makes it very challenging for wolves to safely expand into all areas of suitable habitat, which is vital to sustainable recovery of wolves in the lower 48 states. Although human encroachment on their habitat threatens the future of the wolves, the greatest threat is prejudice, fear and confusion about the species. Fairy tales and myths often misrepresent wolves as villainous, dangerous creatures. Anti-wolf fanatics perpetuate these myths, and to undo decades of misinformation is difficult. Some hunters perceive wolves as a threat to their hunting opportunities, while others understand that wolves actually keep the elk herds and deer strong by culling weaker animals. Wolves help maintain the overall health of the deer and elk. Wolves develop close relationships and strong social bonds. They often demonstrate deep affection for their family and may even sacrifice themselves to protect the pack. This Spadecaller image depicts a lone timber wolf howling to attract the attention of his pack.