While gray wolves were historically present in Illinois, they were extirpated from the state before 1860 due primarily to hunting pressure and habitat loss. Today, confirmed sightings of wild wolves in northern Illinois are rare occurrences. Although not permanently residing in the state, individual wolves occasionally disperse into the region.
Current Status
Illinois is not home to established, breeding populations of gray wolves. The wolves documented in northern Illinois are typically dispersing individuals, primarily originating from healthy populations in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota. These animals are often young, seeking new territories to establish their own packs or join existing ones.
Despite their infrequent presence, gray wolves are afforded significant legal protection in Illinois. They are currently listed as a state endangered species. Federally, following a February 2022 court order, gray wolves in the contiguous 48 states, excluding the Northern Rocky Mountain population, are once again protected as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. This protected status means that gray wolves cannot be hunted, killed, or harassed for any reason within Illinois.
Telling Wolves Apart from Coyotes
Distinguishing a gray wolf from a coyote can be challenging due to their similar appearances, but several key differences exist. Gray wolves are significantly larger and heavier than coyotes, typically weighing between 60 to 130 pounds for adults, compared to coyotes which usually weigh between 15 and 45 pounds. An adult wolf can stand 27 to 33 inches tall at the shoulder, while coyotes are approximately 18 to 24 inches.
Beyond size, physical characteristics of the head and body can help differentiate them. Wolves possess broader snouts, larger feet, and ears that are more rounded and compact relative to their head size. Coyotes, in contrast, have narrower, more pointed snouts and ears that are proportionally larger and more pointed. When walking, wolves tend to carry their bushy tails in line with their backs, while coyotes typically point their tails downward. Their tracks also differ; wolf tracks are considerably larger, measuring approximately 4.5 to 5 inches long, whereas coyote tracks are about 2.5 inches.
Understanding Wolf Behavior and Safety
Wolves are naturally reclusive animals and generally avoid human contact. They prefer to keep their distance, usually staying more than 100 yards away from humans.
Attacks on humans by healthy, wild wolves are exceedingly rare, particularly in North America, with most incidents involving aggression occurring when wolves have become habituated to humans, often due to being fed, or in cases of rabies. If an encounter occurs, remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Make yourself appear as large as possible by standing tall and raising your arms, make noise, and slowly back away while maintaining eye contact. If a wolf acts aggressively or attacks, fight back aggressively using any available objects. Securing food and keeping pets leashed in wolf country are also important precautions to prevent habituation and potential conflicts.
Conservation Efforts and Outlook
Conservation efforts for gray wolves in Illinois are primarily focused on their protected legal status and monitoring their occasional presence. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) monitors wolf activity, encouraging the public to report sightings with evidence. While the IDNR does not actively reintroduce wolves, they do not impede the natural recolonization of individuals dispersing from other states.
The gray wolf has been protected under the Illinois Wildlife Code since 2015. The federal protection under the Endangered Species Act further reinforces their conservation status across the state. Despite these protections and the occasional dispersing wolf, there are no current signs of self-sustaining wolf populations or packs establishing themselves in Illinois.