Could More SE Washington Wolves be Removed?

Washington wildlife officials are considering the lethal removal of one or more wolves from the Couse pack territory in southeast Washington following repeated livestock attacks.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife said a calf found dead September 8th was confirmed killed by wolves.  It’s the 6th confirmed depredation in the Couse pack territory in the past ten months, and the first in 30 days.  Earlier this year, officials investigated three confirmed livestock deaths, one probable death and one confirmed injury involving two Asotin County producers.

The Department said this most recently impacted producer had used non-lethal measures, including frequent range riding, delaying calf turnout until they weighed more than 200 pounds, avoiding areas of high wolf activity and removing sick or injured animals.

WDFW staff are now assessing next steps and expect to make a recommendation to the agency’s director within days.

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