Wolf # 174 was the first Mexican gray wolf to give birth to a pup in the wild in the U.S. in about 50 years. Her mate and pup from the Campbell-Blue pack were observed in the area during the course of the investigation. Later the male dragged the elk calf carcass to the pup; both fed; and moved on approximately 4 miles northwest of the site. Both the adult and the pup appeared to be in good physical condition. A decision was made not to attempt any recapture or relocation of the male and pup at this time. Monitoring has been intensified to make certain the male is caring for the pup, which has been feeding on prey killed by its parents.
Wolf #174 is the second of the eleven wolves to have been killed after being released. At this time it appears unlikely any foul play was involved.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement agents investigated the site, and the wolf is being shipped today to the National Forensics Laboratory in Ashland, Oregon, for necropsy. Necropsy results are not likely for one or two weeks. The Service will treat this incident as an open case under investigation until all evidence has been reviewed.
Wolf # 174 was born four years ago at Binder Park Zoo, in Battle Creek, Michigan.
