The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) carries out enhanced predator management practices to benefit elk and other wildlife species.
Biologists say there are approximately 107,000 elk in the state which is down from 125,000 in 1997. There are also backcountry areas, such as the Lolo and Selway Zones, where elk numbers are ailing due to poor habitat and predator populations.
Hunters took an average of 2,582 bears and 577 mountain lions over the last five years. The annual wolf harvest hovers at about 285 animals.
“We appear to be on the right path,” Jim Hayden, IDFG large carnivore specialist, told the Hagadone News Network. “Our hope is to accelerate increases in the elk herd.”
(Photo source: Idaho Department of Fish and Game)