California is experiencing a record number of wolf attacks on livestock, with at least 26 livestock animals killed in the first three months of 2026. The state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife is distributing $1.1 million to ranchers who lost their farm animals.
Wolf Population on the Rise
More than a century ago, wolf populations were largely eliminated in California through the state government’s campaign to kill or trap them to protect livestock. However, in 2011, a collared gray wolf became the first confirmed wild wolf to return to California after it crossed the state line from Oregon. Since then, it’s estimated that 100 wolves in 12 different packs are living in the state, mostly in Northern California.
The return of gray wolves may be beneficial for the restoration of the native species, but they are bringing back the same problems from a century ago: they are attacking farm animals. The California Farm Bureau, a statewide organization representing California farmers and ranchers, reported 196 confirmed wolf attacks on livestock in 2025, the highest annual total since wolves returned to the state.
Impact on Ranchers
For ranchers, the impact extends beyond the loss of an individual animal. Wolf depredation can disrupt herd reproduction, lower weight gain, and increase stress on the animal and the rancher who is fighting to protect their livestock. According to Steven Fenaroli with the nonprofit organization, wolves are protected under the California Endangered Species Act, prohibiting the killing or injuring of a wolf.
Ranchers are left with few choices when wolf attacks occur. Livestock producers may use pepper balls, loud music, or flagged ropes to scare wolves away, but the animals quickly figure out the methods are not life-threatening. The stress of the hostile environment could negatively impact herd reproduction and cause weight loss.
The state government has assigned the California Farm Bureau to distribute $1.1 million as compensation to help the affected ranchers. While not a solution to the conflict, the Wolf Livestock Compensation Program is one avenue that helps ranchers deal with loss.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
