Wolves in Washington  update

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Wolves in Washington

Donny Martorello, wolf policy lead, said “the number of breeding pairs in Washington increased from 5 to 8 — the first increase since 2011. Despite the growing numbers, wolves were involved in fewer conflicts with livestock than in 2014.” He also said, “the department determined wolves from four packs were responsible for a killing a total of seven cattle and injuring one guard dog.”

This may be good news for cattle ranchers but what about the deer and elk populations that wolves primarily feed upon?

When the state reaches the target of 15 breeding pairs, it will host about 168 wolves in Washington. Defenders of Wildlife figures show wolves eat about 20 pounds of meat per day, when sufficient food is available. Even if they eat only twice a week, 168 wolves would consume 6,720 pounds a week or about 350,000 pounds per year. Based on the limited territory they use for habitat, that’s a pretty big chunk out of the deer and elk population. Not an encouraging picture for big game in the state.

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