The Bangor Daily News recently published an excellent article on one man’s relentless search for wolves in Maine (BDN, July 7). A confused reader responded by expressing outrage at Dana Smith’s motives.

I’m writing to express full support for Smith’s efforts and to applaud his enthusiasm, his dedication and his persistence. Smith may be obsessed with finding wolves, but the last thing he would ever do is kill one. His love for these animals is obvious to everyone who spends just a minute in his presence. He has spent countless hours and thousands of his own dollars to pursue his dream of finding wolves in the forests and country that he loves.

Smith works actively with many conservation organizations such as Defenders of Wildlife and with state agencies, sharing any information he discovers about the presence of wolves in Maine. It’s about time that this man receives credit for all of his efforts.

Lisa Osborn

Defenders of Wildlife

Waitsfield, Vt.