Oregon Authorities Remove Wolf After Livestock Attacks
In a decisive action on February 26, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) lethally removed a male gray wolf, known as OR158, following a series of confirmed livestock attacks and rising public safety concerns. This removal came after OR158 was linked to eight confirmed and four probable cases of depredation on local cattle.
The situation escalated when OR158, a solitary wolf traveling from Baker County, Oregon, to Modoc County, California, was reported to have killed at least five calves within a span of ten days. The Lake County Board of Commissioners responded to the crisis by declaring a public safety and livestock emergency on February 19, emphasizing that the wolf showed no fear of humans or disturbances.
Prior to this lethal action, ODFW had implemented an Area-Specific Conflict Deterrence Plan on February 20, outlining various non-lethal measures to mitigate the conflict. However, multiple attempts at these deterrents were unsuccessful, prompting the lethal removal.
The issue garnered significant public attention, culminating in a town hall meeting in Modoc County just a day before the wolf’s removal. The event was heavily attended, with community members expressing their strong feelings regarding the wolf and its impact on local livestock. Co-organizer and Modoc County supervisor Ned Coe noted the high emotions present at the meeting, while remaining respectful, and conveyed a strong message to the California Fish and Wildlife representatives in attendance.
The removal of OR158 reflects the ongoing challenges of managing wildlife interactions with human communities, particularly in areas experiencing increasing wolf activity. Local authorities continue to navigate the complexities of wildlife conservation and public safety.
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