In a major turning point for wolf conservation in California, state wildlife officials have announced plans to relax protections on the endangered species after recent data showed a significant increase in their numbers. The move marks the latest chapter in the remarkable comeback of gray wolves, which were eradicated from the state nearly a century ago.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) said the change reflects progress in the species’ recovery and aims to better balance conservation efforts with the concerns of ranchers and landowners.
A Century in the Making
Wolves disappeared from California in the 1920s due to aggressive hunting and eradication programs. But in 2011, a lone wolf dubbed OR-7 wandered across the Oregon border into California, igniting hope that the species could return. Since then, several packs have established themselves in Northern California, with wolves giving birth to litters and expanding their range.
The CDFW now estimates there are at least 45 known wolves in the state—a small but significant number considering the species’ absence for nearly 100 years.
Changing Protections
Wolves are currently listed under California’s Endangered Species Act, which provides strict protections, including a ban on killing the animals even in cases of livestock predation. But with increasing numbers and growing concerns from ranchers, the state is proposing to adjust those rules, potentially allowing for non-lethal deterrents, improved compensation programs, and in rare cases, state-approved removals. Non-lethal deterrents could include things like firing rubber bullets or bean bags. It could also include using utility task vehicles (UTV) or all-terrain vehicles (ATV) to chase the wolves away from livestock.
Officials emphasize that while protections may be eased, the species will still receive active management and monitoring. Monitoring, according to the CDFW, includes placing satellite collars on wolves in order to track their movements and let ranchers know if wolves are in the area of their livestock.
A Balancing Act
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Conservationists cautiously welcomed the news, calling it a milestone in wolf recovery. However, they urged state officials to maintain strong safeguards to prevent setbacks.
Meanwhile, ranchers and agricultural groups have pushed for more flexible rules, citing increasing wolf-related livestock losses in rural communities.
In a press release from the CDFW dated April 2, phase 2 of wolf conservation includes continuing to create a balance between the increasing numbers of wolves and the depredation of livestock. This includes compensation programs for livestock lost to wolves, the pilot programs of this compensation initiative started in 2023, to date the CDFW has awarded $3.1 million in compensation.
The Future of Wolves in California
As wolves continue to recolonize their former territory, officials are investing in public education, livestock protection measures, and genetic monitoring to ensure a balanced approach. Biologists are also tracking wolf movements with GPS collars and cameras, providing vital data on how the animals are adapting to their environment.
California’s evolving wolf policy may now serve as a model for other states navigating the challenges of carnivore recovery.
For now, the return of wolves signals a new era of wildlife restoration—one that reflects both ecological resilience and the complexities of coexistence.
