The latest population estimate shows the wolf population in Wisconsin is more than two and a half times larger than the state’s wolf management plan. The latest minimum estimate is between 914 to 978 animals.
“These are minimum counts. They are fairly intensely done by the Wisconsin DNR. They are a reliable indicator of the growth of the population that’s probably a little bit less than what the actual population is,” said Adrian Wydeven, former Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist, told the Associated Press. “There are also efforts by the DNR to develop new methods for monitoring the population.”
Citing robust populations, the USFWS delisted wolves in the Great Lakes region in 2011 only to have a judge overturn the move in 2014.
Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin all have wolf populations well above their respective state wolf management plans.
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation maintains that wolves should be managed by state agencies just as they manage elk, mountain lions, deer, bears and other wildlife.
(Photo source: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources)