Gray wolves, a species historically absent from California for decades, have begun to naturally re-establish themselves within the state. This return sparks considerable public interest, particularly regarding their presence in specific areas like Mammoth Lakes. Understanding the current distribution of these animals and their natural behaviors is important for both wildlife conservation and public awareness.
Wolves in the Mammoth Lakes Area
Mammoth Lakes, situated in Mono County, is not currently known to host established resident wolf packs. While individual wolves have demonstrated remarkable dispersal capabilities, traveling vast distances across California, the primary areas with confirmed wolf activity are located further north. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) currently recognizes seven wolf packs, predominantly spanning Siskiyou, Lassen, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, and Tehama counties in Northern California.
An individual male wolf, known as OR-93, made a historic journey through Mono County in 2021, venturing farther south into California than any known wolf in over a century. This dispersal confirmed that the region is traversable for wolves, though it did not result in a resident pack. The state’s southernmost confirmed pack, the Yowlumni pack, is located in Tulare County within the southern Sierra Nevada.
The Journey of Wolves Back to California
Gray wolves were extirpated from California by the 1920s due to widespread hunting and habitat changes. Their natural return to the state began in late 2011 with OR-7, a male wolf from Oregon. OR-7 became the first confirmed wild wolf in California since 1924, traversing over 1,000 miles during his explorations.
OR-7 eventually returned to Oregon, establishing the Rogue Pack. His offspring also dispersed into California, with a son contributing to the Lassen pack. Another disperser, OR-93, journeyed extensively through California, covering approximately 935 miles before his death in 2021 from a vehicle strike. These wolves are protected under both the California Endangered Species Act and the federal Endangered Species Act.
How to Identify a Wolf
Identifying a wolf in the wild can be challenging due to their resemblance to coyotes and large domestic dogs. Gray wolves are the largest wild members of the dog family, weighing 40 to 175 pounds and standing 26 to 33 inches tall at the shoulder. Their body length ranges from 3 to 5 feet, with a 1 to 2-foot bushy tail.
Wolves have a muscular, rectangular build with long legs and large paws for long-distance travel. Their heads are robust with a wide forehead and a long, blunt muzzle; their ears are relatively short and rounded compared to coyotes’. Coat colors vary from white to grizzled gray, brown, or black, often appearing more grizzled than dogs.
Understanding Wolf Behavior
Wolves are highly social animals that live in family units known as packs, consisting of a breeding pair and their offspring. Pack sizes generally range from five to nine members. These social structures facilitate cooperative hunting and raising young.
Wild wolves are wary of humans and prefer to avoid contact, often steering clear of populated areas and roads. If an encounter occurs, remain calm and avoid approaching the animal. Making yourself appear larger by waving arms and speaking loudly can help deter a wolf. Backing away slowly without turning your back or running is advisable; report any sightings to wildlife authorities.