Wolves are finding a home in northwest Colorado. Three confirmed wolf pups were observed between June 4 and 8, though there may be more, as seen through long-range optics by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) staff. Presumably, the pups were being adorable when observed.
As the pups grow and disperse, their impact in Colorado may become less cuddly and more prickly to some. CPW is beginning to ramp up Phase One of wolf reintroduction as they barnstorm this summer with over 40 meetings throughout the state. For now, many biologists and state officials are focused on the wolves that are already here.
CPW wildlife biologist Libbie Miller noted, “We are continuing to actively monitor this den site while exercising extreme caution so as not to inadvertently jeopardize the potential survival of these pups.” She emphasized that not bothering the pups was of critical importance. The location, even whether it’s on public land or private land remains undisclosed. However, past press releases have stated the den site as being somewhere in Jackson County.
The wolf litter won’t impact CPW’s directive to develop a plan and take steps to reintroduce wolves west of the Continental Divide. That reintroduction will take place over the next several years.
The first step for CPW is to hear from the public. In July and August CPW staff and their partners will be coming to Chaffee County and surrounding areas to gather input. In Phase 1, they plan to hold dozens of in-person and virtual meetings as well as open an online comment period.
CPW will host 13 regional open houses including those located in Gunnison and Alamosa as well as smaller focus groups in Salida and Gunnison. The dates, times, and venues are still being determined. Currently, the budget for wolf reintroduction efforts is one million dollars per year – with much of that budget focused at this point on gathering public input.
Even without reintroduction, Coloradans should expect to continue to hear more about wolves in the state; both about the wolves that are already here and those that will be brought in. Area Wildlife Manager Kris Middledorf said she marveled at the journey the breeding pair overcame to produce a litter of pups.
“It’s incredible that these two adult animals have traveled the distance and overcome the challenges they have to get here, and to now have pups in Colorado,” added Middledorf. “It’s our priority to ensure that they have the chance to thrive, so even as we have exciting news, we want to remind everyone that these animals remain endangered in Colorado.”
Gray wolves in Colorado are classified as a state endangered species and killing a wolf in Colorado, even if it’s depredating livestock, is a crime.
On 6:00 p.m. on June 16, CPW is hosting a free class titled “Wolf-Livestock Damage Minimization and Compensation”. Use this Zoom meeting link to sign up and see more details about the wolf reintroduction educational sessions here.
To learn more about wolves in Colorado, visit the Frequently Asked Questions page on the CPW website.
Recent Comments