Wolf Will Not Be Removed From SE Washington Pack

Earlier this week, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Kelly Susewind decided against the lethal removal of wolves from the Couse wolf pack territory.  This decision comes after one probable, and three confirmed depredations were reported against cattle in Asotin County in less than 30 days.

Susewind said he decided against removing a wolf after one adult male wolf was already killed reportedly in the act of attacking livestock.

WDFW is investigating that April 3rd incident.

Susewind said the Department will continue to assess the Asotin County situation

In areas of Washington where wolves are not listed under the Endangered Species Act, owners of domestic animals (or an immediate family member, agent, or employee) may kill one gray wolf without a permit if the wolf is attacking domestic animals.

WDFW addded Susewind's decision is consistent with the guidance of the state's Wolf Conservation and Management Plan and the lethal removal provisions of the Department's 2020 Wolf/Livestock Interaction Protocol. 

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