Washington state’s 2017 wolf count was released today. The total number of wolves, number of packs and number of breeding pairs increased from 2016. In total, there are 122 wolves, seven more than last year. Two additional packs were formed in the state, bringing the number to 22. Lastly, there are four more breeding pairs, making a total of 14.
Wolf counts in Washington have remained constant or increased every year for the last nine years. Significantly, the number of livestock producers using nonlethal, coexistence measures also continues to increase.
Quinn Read, Northwest director for Defenders of Wildlife, issued this statement:
“We are encouraged by the latest signs that Washington's wolf population is growing and dispersing.
“To ensure the continued recovery of wolves in Washington, we must continue to expand our coexistence efforts. More and more livestock producers are opting to use nonlethal techniques. Studies show that these nonlethal methods are more effective at reducing conflicts than lethal removal.
“We continue to work for the ultimate recovery of wolves in Washington.”
Defenders of Wildlife is celebrating 75 years of protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.2 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife heritage for generations to come. For more information, visit defenders.org/newsroom and follow us on Twitter @Defenders.
