The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announces the results of the state’s winter wolf census. In 2024, the department estimates the Upper Peninsula’s population has grown by 131 new wolves since 2022. That brings the Upper Peninsula’s total estimated wolf population to 762 animals. The numbers demonstrate continued stability in the state’s wolf population over the past 14 years, according to Brian Roell, DNR large carnivore specialist. When a wild population reaches that stable point, slight year-to-year fluctuations are typically seen, suggesting Upper Peninsula gray wolves may have reached their biological carrying capacity. The count found 158 packs in the Upper Peninsula, with an average of fewer than 5 animals per pack. This is the highest estimated gray wolf population from the state census since 2012, when the department began counting wolves.
The department also recognizes the challenges of counting wolves in the northern Lower Peninsula. The last survey was conducted in 2019. The department plans to conduct a wolf survey in the Lower Peninsula in 2025. Those interested in learning more about the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ 2024 Winter Wolf Survey in the Upper Peninsula can find more details here.
