The Idaho Department of Fish and Game released the latest wolf population estimate, showing the numbers have been stable for the last three years based on surveys conducted during the summer.
The 2021 population as of Aug. 1 was 1,543 wolves, and the 2020 and 2019 estimates were 1,556 and 1,566, respectively.
“The population estimate is a valuable tool to measure the effectiveness of Fish and Game Commission’s wolf management and provide the public with a clear understanding of that management,” Idaho Fish and Game Director Ed Schriever said.
According to the department press release, documented mortality from July 1 through Dec. 31 was 300 wolves, 37 more than July through December of 2020.
The department noted the Idaho legislature passed SB1211, which further expanded methods of take and extended trapping seasons, mostly on private lands, to decrease depredation of livestock. Those enhanced methods did not take effect until July 1.
