Game And Fish Officers Euthanize A Wolf In Jackson, WY

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service  euthanized an old female wolf, which had settled into a populated part of Jackson, WY., yesterday.

Mike Jimenez, the Service’s wolf recovery coordinator for Wyoming, trapped and euthanized a large white wolf, which settled with another female wolf in the outskirts of Jackson. Over the past two months the two female wolves had been reported by several concerned citizens.

Recognizing the potential conflict with Jackson residents, officers began tracking the two wolves using the signal from a functioning radio collar to pinpoint their location.

Unfortunately, in this case these two wolves settled into a high human density area and seemed to be forming a pack according to the officers.  Due to safety concerns, the officers believed this to be unacceptable and were forced to deal with this situation.

Game and Fish officers tracked one of the wolves down, captured it and humanely euthanized it late Tuesday afternoon.

One wolf remains in the housing area. Jimenez will continue to track the remaining wolf, but it's possible the lone wolf will wonder off as a disperser and not need to be controlled.

Thanks to the effective conservation of the Northern Rocky Mountain wolf population there is a healthy, robust population of wolves on the Wyoming landscape now. With this increased number of wolves, there is increased potential for wolves to come in conflict with human beings on the western slopes of Wyoming.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Wyoming Game and Fish Department, is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service.

Source: US Fish and Game Press Release