Increase in wolf attacks in northeast Oregon leads to deadly actions

Northeast Oregon – A recent increase in wolf attacks in northeastern Oregon has led to deadly relocation operations and increased tensions between wildlife owners and livestock owners.

In Union County, the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife authorized and carried out the killing of a wolf on July 10 after a series of attacks by the Tower Mountain Pack resulted in the deaths of several livestock animals. This decision followed two confirmed depredations that left six sheep dead and a livestock guardian dog injured. Despite measures such as a shepherd, livestock guardian dogs and deterrent devices, attacks continued, prompting the ODFW to use lethal measures on public lands.

The Ruckel Ridge Pack in Umatilla County has also been involved in recent attacks. On July 5, a sheep was killed on public land near Summit Road, followed by the death of another sheep in the same area on July 9. Both incidents were confirmed by wildlife officials.

In Wallowa County, the Bear Creek pack was particularly aggressive, attacking livestock on several consecutive days. On July 7 and 8, two four-month-old calves were injured on private property near Bear Creek. ODFW confirmed these incidents and was closely monitoring the pack.

In response to the increasing threat, ODFW has authorized lethal removal actions in Wallowa County. The focus of these actions is the Bear Creek Pack, which has been involved in numerous depredations. Wildlife officials say they will continue to evaluate the situation and take the necessary steps to protect livestock while keeping the wolf population under control.