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Wyoming Hunt Threatens Ancient Wolf Lineage Outside Park Borders
19 Jul
Summary
- Mollie's Pack is the last wolf pack from the original Yellowstone reintroduction.
- Wolves are naive to human dangers, making them vulnerable to hunters.
- State officials relocated a den site to avoid cattle conflict.
Mollie's Pack, the sole remaining pack from Yellowstone National Park's historic 1995 wolf reintroduction, is facing increased risks. This ancient lineage, known for its long intact genetic history, has moved outside the park boundaries into Wyoming's hunt area 1. State wildlife officials have attempted to mitigate conflict by relocating their den site away from cattle grazing areas.
This movement, potentially driven by a mild winter and harder-to-catch prey within the park, leaves the wolves exposed. Their historical acclimation to human presence makes them naive to hunting dangers. Wyoming's hunting season, starting September 15, permits the killing of up to four wolves in the region, sparking worry for the pack's survival. Biologists confirmed the pack's presence outside the park, noting their vulnerability due to their lack of fear of humans.
Conservationists urged Wyoming Game and Fish commissioners to temporarily close hunt area 1 to protect this scientifically significant pack. However, the commission voted to allow the hunt, adhering to a management plan based on broader population assessments rather than individual pack status. This decision highlights the ongoing challenge of managing wolves that venture beyond park protection.
