State order to kill wolf in northeast Washington is canceled
The state Department of Fish and Wildlife rescinded an order to kill a wolf in northeastern Washington one week after authorizing the plan in response to attacks on livestock.
A calf was killed and two others were injured in mid-May in the Aladdin Valley area of Stevens County. Three wolf packs inhabit the area. State wildlife managers have not determined which wolf or wolves were responsible for the attacks.
Agency Director Kelly Susewind authorized staff on May 22 to kill one wolf. A week later, on May 29, he withdrew the order and moved the agency into an evaluation period, stating if another attack on livestock occurs, lethal removal would be reconsidered.
After the attacks, but before the kill order, the agency trapped and radio-collared one wolf belonging to the Onion Creek pack, which has at least five members. Staff then spent a week attempting to trap another wolf, but to no avail.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/briefs/state-order-to-kill-wolf-in-northeast-washington-is-canceled/