For Immediate Release

Two wolves were poached in northeastern Washington state. One wolf was from the Smackout Pack, the other from the Dirty Shirt Pack. Both were collared females, according to state officials. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife currently has no leads. 

Shawn Cantrell, vice president of Field Conservation Programs for Defenders of Wildlife, issued this statement: 

“Defenders of Wildlife is appalled by these senseless killings. They highlight the need to not only aggressively prosecute poachers, but also to build greater social acceptance of wolves through coexistence initiatives." 

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 supporters, 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.

  

News

Bobcat
Washington, D.C.

Defenders of Wildlife Partners with Rep. Don Beyer on Monumental Corridors Act

Defenders of Wildlife today celebrated the introduction of the Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act of 2026, a landmark bill that would establish a national framework for identifying, designating and protecting wildlife corridors across the country.
Wild Red Wolf
Washington, D.C.

House Leadership Pulls Historic Vote Following Intense Public Pressure

The GOP Leadership in the House of Representatives today pulled its scheduled vote on Rep. Bruce Westerman’s (R-AR) ESA Amendments Act of 2025 — more aptly called the Extinction Act.
Visit the newsroom