Wisconsin Wolf Population Remains Similar to 2007
Wisconsin Ag Connection – 05/22/2008
Wisconsin’s gray wolf population over the winter of 2007-08 declined slightly, if at all, from the previous winter. That’s according to the state’s most recent wolf population survey by the Department of Natural Resources. DNR biologists estimate there are between 537 and 564 wolves in Wisconsin, about the same number as a year ago.
The annual winter wolf count relies on aerial tracking of radio-collared wolves and snow track surveys by DNR and volunteer trackers. Also included are wolf sightings by members of the public. The agency has conducted these counts since the winter of 1979-1980 when there were 25 wolves in the state.
Adrian Wydeven, a DNR conservation biologist and wolf specialist, said the once-rapid growth in wolf numbers appears to be slowing or leveling off as the wolf population approaches the maximum size that the heavily forested parts of the state can comfortably support.
In 2007 wolves caused depredation to livestock on 30 farms, a new record. In 2006 wolves killed livestock on 25 farms.
Following a long process in which state officials had few options for taking action against problem wolves, state and federal officials were able to more aggressively respond this past year, because on March 12, 2007, wolves in Wisconsin and other portions of the western Great Lakes were removed from the list of federally endangered and threatened species. This meant state and tribal wildlife mangers could trap and euthanize wolves that prey on livestock.
Wildlife Services staff from the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducted trapping on most Wisconsin farms hit by wolf depredation in 2007 capturing and killing 37 wolves and one wolf dog hybrid.
The DNR issued shooting permits to 25 landowners with recent wolf problems in 2007, but no wolves were shot on these permits.
Three landowners did shoot wolves in the act of attacking pets or livestock on their property without permits after wolves were removed from federal protection. Landowners or renters of land are allowed to shoot wolves in the act of attacking pets or livestock. They are required to contact their local conservation warden within 24 hours.
Wydeven said farmers in areas of depredation were pleased to see government trappers on the job and were also pleased with the issuance of landowner shooting permits.