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Endangered Wolves Brutally Murdered in New Mexico
14 Jun
Summary
- Two endangered Mexican gray wolves, father and son, were found dead.
- Investigations point to poaching as a major cause of wolf deaths.
- Suspects are being investigated for potential Endangered Species Act violations.
The recent brutal killings of two endangered Mexican gray wolves, Wolf 2704 and Wolf 2994, in New Mexico have intensified concerns over rampant poaching. These father and son wolves, members of the Sawtooth pack, were discovered deceased within a month of each other.
Wolf 2704 was found near a highway, likely having died of dehydration after being trapped on private property. His body was moved to conceal the trap and carcass. Wolf 2994 was found on public land after being shot in the spine and beaten to death, also showing signs of being trapped.
An ongoing investigation by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents has involved searches of private properties, seizing traps and firearms. These incidents are part of a disturbing trend, with poaching accounting for approximately half of the 314 wolf deaths recorded in New Mexico between 1998 and 2024.
Penalties for violating the Endangered Species Act and Lacey Act can include significant fines and imprisonment. Wildlife advocates emphasize the cruelty involved and the challenges in prosecuting such cases, noting that only half of the wolf population is trackable due to lack of collars and the remote terrain.
