California Counties Declare Emergency Amid Gray Wolf Attacks on Livestock

Several northern California counties, including Shasta, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, and Sierra, have declared a state of emergency due to increased gray wolf activity. These wolves, a protected species under the California Endangered Species Act, are reportedly exhibiting bolder behavior, approaching rural homes, and attacking livestock. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has confirmed wolf involvement in livestock deaths. County boards are requesting modifications to legal protections to allow for relocation or euthanasia of aggressive wolves, as current regulations limit ranchers' ability to use deterrents. The CDFW promotes non-lethal methods, while organizations like the Center for Biological Diversity advocate for continued wolf protection. These attacks are causing economic strain, with estimated losses ranging from $69,000 to $162,000 per wolf, considering both direct livestock losses and indirect impacts like reduced weight gain and lower pregnancy rates in cattle. Shasta County residents are urged to report wolf sightings to Fish and Wildlife.