Colorado Wolf Killed After Livestock Attacks
- Following multiple livestock attacks in the Western Slope this month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials euthanized a gray wolf from the Copper Creek Pack, the agency announced...
- The decision to employ lethal management on the wolf, a measure aligned with the state's wolf reintroduction plan, came after two calves were killed and three calves and...
- The impacted herds were identified as belonging to Lost Marbles Ranch, Crystal River Ranch, and McCabe Ranch, all located in Pitkin County.
Colorado wildlife officials euthanized a gray wolf following livestock attacks, confirming the first instance of lethal action against a wolf in the state’s reintroduction program.The Copper Creek Pack member was killed after several attacks on calves and a cow prompted outcry from local ranchers.This decision, though difficult, highlights Colorado’s commitment to both wolf restoration and livestock protection. The series of incidents, wich led officials to the decision, caused important distress for ranchers like Mike Cerveny. News Directory 3 reports on the latest wildlife management issues,and it’s crucial to understand this delicate balance. Discover what’s next for wolf reintroduction and the ranchers impacted.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife euthanizes Wolf After Livestock Attacks
Updated May 30, 2025
Following multiple livestock attacks in the Western Slope this month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials euthanized a gray wolf from the Copper Creek Pack, the agency announced Friday. This marks the first time state wildlife officials have taken lethal action against a wolf due to depredation of domestic animals.
The decision to employ lethal management on the wolf, a measure aligned with the state’s wolf reintroduction plan, came after two calves were killed and three calves and one cow were injured between May 17 and Sunday. The incidents sparked concern among local ranchers and advocacy groups, including the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association.
The impacted herds were identified as belonging to Lost Marbles Ranch, Crystal River Ranch, and McCabe Ranch, all located in Pitkin County.
“It’s hard to describe the heartbreak of finding a calf torn apart in the middle of the field you’ve been tending day and night,” said rancher Mike Cerveny in a statement released by the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association. “We work around the clock to protect our livestock, onyl to be blindsided like this and not even told wolves were in the area until it was too late.”
CPW Director Jeff Davis acknowledged the difficulty of the decision. He stated the agency remains committed to both wolf restoration and supporting Colorado’s livestock producers.
What’s next
Colorado Parks and Wildlife will continue to monitor wolf activity and livestock interactions, balancing the goals of wolf reintroduction with the needs of ranchers in the state. Further evaluation of the reintroduction program’s protocols is anticipated.