Wolf Population On The Rise in Washington State

New data from the state Department of Fish and Wildlife shows the population of wolves continues to rise in Washington.

The gray wolf population grew 16 percent last year, although the state numbers are a minimum count, which means the actual number of wolves in Washington is much higher.

The state's wolf population has grown by an average of 25 percent since the count was first taken in 2008.

Fish and Wildlife says the new numbers show wolf attacks on livestock are at a five year low.

The department estimates at least 206 wolves are now roaming the lands in 33 packs. That is compared to 178 wolves in 29 packs measured in 2020.

"Washington’s wolves continue to progress toward recovery, with four new packs documented in four different counties of the state in 2021,” said Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind.