WDFW Approves The Removal Of SE Washington Wolves

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has authorized the lethal removal of one or two wolves from the Tucannon pack in southeast Washington following repeated livestock attacks.

Director Kelly Susewind approved the action Tuesday evening, citing three confirmed livestock depredations and five probable injury incidents involving wolves.  The impacted livestock belonged to three separate producers.

WDFW said ranchers had already implemented multiple nonlethal deterrents, including range riders, increased human presence, delayed calf turnout, and removal of sick or injured animals.  State officials said additional nonlethal options are not likely to be effective and believes livestock depredations could continue.

The agency said removing one or two wolves will not jeopardize wolf recovery efforts in the region or statewide.

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