Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced Friday that it has lethally removed an uncollared female yearling wolf from the One Ear Pack in Grand County. The decision follows a month‑long observation period that documented ongoing depredation on local livestock.
Observation period and depredation record
CPW officials said the evaluation began after a prior removal on August 4. During the August observation, CPW confirmed seven separate depredation incidents attributed to the One Ear Pack. Because the wolf’s behavior did not change, the agency invoked its chronic depredation directive, which calls for an incremental response when non‑lethal measures fail.
Non‑lethal efforts before lethal action
Before resorting to lethal removal, CPW worked with local producers on a variety of non‑lethal strategies. These included hazing the wolves when possible and maintaining an active human presence near livestock. CPW emphasized that lethal removal is considered a last resort after all reasonable alternatives have been exhausted.
Other recent lethal removals
In addition to the Grand County wolf, CPW released information about two other wolves that were part of lethal removal operations earlier this week in Pitkin and Rio Blanco counties. The agency said a final report summarizing all recent lethal removal efforts will be posted on its website once completed.
Impact on local ranchers
Local ranchers have expressed relief that CPW is taking decisive action to protect their herds. Many rely on livestock for their family’s livelihood, and repeated depredation can threaten the economic stability of small farms throughout the mountainous region.
Balancing wildlife and agriculture
CPW’s approach reflects a balance between preserving Colorado’s iconic wildlife and supporting the traditional families that depend on ranching. The agency’s incremental policy aims to reduce conflict while still allowing wolves to thrive where they can coexist with human activities.
For more details on the removal process and future wildlife‑management plans, readers can visit the CPW website or contact the agency’s Grand County office.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
