Flagstaff, Ariz.

An endangered Mexican gray wolf known as “Anubis” (m2520) was illegally shot and killed in Arizona last weekend. His death, on Kaibab National Forest land is currently under federal investigation.

Bryan Bird, Southwest program director at Defenders of Wildlife issued the following statement:

"The killing of Anubis, a Mexican gray wolf, is another tragic reminder that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service needs to expand the recovery area for this species to include Grand Canyon National Park. The surrounding wilderness is the perfect habitat for Mexican gray wolves. As the species continues to recover, conservation and coexistence must be a priority."

Mexican gray wolves are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Killing one is a violation of the federal Endangered Species Act and can result in criminal and civil fines of up to $50,000 and jail time.

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Mexican Gray Wolf stare
Wolf Conservation Center

For nearly 80 years, Defenders of Wildlife has worked to protect and restore America’s wildlife at risk of extinction, advancing a vision of a future in which wildlife thrives, sustained by broad public support and a resilient network of healthy lands and waters. With a network of more than 2 million supporters, Defenders is an advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on Instagram @defendersofwildlife.  

 

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