Wolves inhabit Wisconsin, primarily in its northern and central regions. Their return signifies a notable wildlife recovery story within the state’s diverse ecosystems.
A History of Return
Before European settlement, an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 wolves roamed throughout Wisconsin. However, extensive hunting and habitat loss led to a significant decline in their numbers. State bounties on wolves, first introduced in 1865, persisted until 1957, contributing to their near eradication. By 1960, wolves were considered extirpated from Wisconsin, with fewer than 50 remaining in the extreme north by 1950.
The turning point for wolf recovery came with the passage of the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1973. This legislation provided significant protections for species at risk of extinction, leading to the gray wolf’s inclusion on the endangered list in 1974. Following these protections, wolf populations in neighboring Minnesota began to rebound and naturally expanded their range into northwestern Wisconsin. The first breeding pack in Wisconsin was confirmed in Douglas County in 1978, marking the beginning of their natural recolonization.
Current Population and Distribution
Wisconsin’s wolf population has experienced fluctuations but generally demonstrates stability. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimated the overwinter number of pack-associated wolves between 812 and 1,193 for 2021-2022, with 972 being the most likely estimate. The total number of packs during this period was estimated between 243 and 352, with 288 being the most likely value. While this represented a slight decline from prior estimates of approximately 1,100 wolves, the DNR maintains that biological indicators suggest a healthy and secure population.
Wolf monitoring is conducted annually in winter, which represents the lowest point in their yearly population cycle. The wolf population typically increases after the spring breeding season. The increase in wolf numbers over the past three decades has generally been accompanied by range expansion within the state.
Conservation and Management
Gray wolves in Wisconsin are federally protected as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. This federal listing prohibits harming, harassing, hunting, killing, or trapping wolves without a permit. The federal protection supersedes state laws and management authority. If federal protections were to be removed, a state law from 2012 would require Wisconsin to hold a wolf hunt.
The Wisconsin DNR continues its wolf population monitoring program and implements the Wisconsin Wolf Management Plan 2023. This plan aims for a sustainable and healthy wolf population and emphasizes an adaptive management approach rather than an arbitrary numeric population goal. The plan also includes provisions for new zones and subzones, and mandates an 8-hour registration time to report a wolf kill if hunting is allowed. The DNR works in collaboration with USDA-Wildlife Services to address wolf conflicts.
Living Alongside Wolves
Coexisting with wolves in Wisconsin involves understanding their behavior and implementing preventative measures. Wolves generally avoid people and rarely pose a threat to human safety. If an encounter occurs, avoid approaching, feeding, or interacting with the wolf. Instead, maintaining eye contact, acting aggressively, shouting, and slowly backing away can encourage the wolf to leave. Running away should be avoided, as it may trigger a chase response.
To minimize potential conflicts, especially for landowners with pets or livestock, several practices are recommended. Pet owners should avoid letting dogs roam freely, especially after dark, and ensure pets are on a leash or within visual range during walks. Securing pet food and garbage, burying animal carcasses, and avoiding feeding deer near homes can also reduce attractions for wolves. For livestock, predator-proof fences are effective in preventing depredations. Report suspected wolf depredation of livestock, pets, or hunting dogs, or if wolves exhibit threatening behavior, by contacting USDA-Wildlife Services.