Portland, OR

Defenders of Wildlife is deeply concerned by the news regarding the illegal killing of a breeding gray wolf male near Sisters, Oregon. Gray wolves are listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act in the western two-thirds of Oregon, where this poaching occurred. 

"Oregon holds a unique responsibility to manage and protect its wolf population given the endangered status throughout most of the state, and this tragic moment and illegal act must be met with consequences,” said Joseph Vaile, senior representative of the Northwest program at Defenders of Wildlife. “If this kind of behavior goes unchecked, the state will never reach its recovery  goals under the state’s wolf management plan. Defenders is committed to giving this American icon its best chance at thriving throughout its historical range."

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering a $10,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest, criminal conviction or civil penalty assessment.

###

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

Communications Director
mdewane@defenders.org
(202) 772-0217

News

Image
US Capitol Building Washington DC
Washington, D.C.

Senate Budget Reconciliation Strikes Heart of American Wildlife, Wild Places

Defenders of Wildlife hammered the Senate’s version of the budget reconciliation bill for striking at the heart of America’s wildlife and wild places.
Image
A Transient orca jumps out of the water, making an arch with its body. It's back half and tail are almost completely covered with a white wave, splash.
Salem, OR

Defenders and Partners Urge Oregon State Action on Wildlife Conservation Bill as Two Senators Block Bipartisan Effort

A landmark bill to fund wildlife conservation in Oregon is being held up in the State Senate, despite passing the House with strong bipartisan support and clearing Senate Rules.