The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) estimates there are at least 178 wolves in the state of Washington, marking a 24 percent increase from 2019. Biologists also report the actual population, the largest on recent record, is likely higher.
“Washington wolf recovery continues to make solid progress,” said WDFW Director Kelly Susewind. “For the first time the North Cascades wolf recovery area has met the local recovery objective- four successful breeding pairs – during 2020.”
As of December 31, 2020, WDFW counted 132 wolves in 24 packs and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation reported 46 wolves in five packs in Washington.
The 2020 annual report shows WDFW spent $1,554,292 on wolf management activities including $110,035 in reimbursement to 33 livestock producers. Seven packs (or 24 percent of all known packs) were involved in at least one livestock depredation.
Go here to read the WDFW news release.
(Photo source: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife)