In a major turning point for wolf conservation in California, state wildlife officials have announced plans to relax protections on the endangered species after recent data showed a significant increase in their numbers. The move marks the latest chapter in the remarkable comeback of gray wolves, which were eradicated from the state nearly a century ago.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said the change reflects progress in the species’ recovery and aims to better balance conservation efforts with the concerns of ranchers and landowners.
A Century in the Making
Wolves disappeared from California in the 1920s due to aggressive hunting and eradication programs. But in 2011, a lone wolf dubbed OR-7 wandered across the Oregon border into California, igniting hope that the species could return. Since then, several packs have established themselves in Northern California, with wolves giving birth to litters and expanding their range.
The CDFW now estimates there are at least 45 known wolves in the state—a small but significant number considering the species’ absence for nearly 100 years.
Changing Protections
Wolves are currently listed under California’s Endangered Species Act, which provides strict protections, including a ban on killing the animals even in cases of livestock predation. But with increasing numbers and growing concerns from ranchers, the state is proposing to adjust those rules, potentially allowing for non-lethal deterrents, improved compensation programs, and in rare cases, state-approved removals. Non-lethal deterrents could include things like firing rubber bullets or bean bags. It could also include using utility task vehicles (UTV) or all-terrain vehicles (ATV) to chase the wolves away from livestock…