Why is Endangered Species Act protection no longer needed?
The NRM wolf population no longer meets the legal requirements to remain listed under the Endangered Species Act (Act). In late 2002, the wolf population achieved its recovery goal of at least 30 breeding pairs and more than 300 wolves well distributed among Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming for at least three consecutive years. At that time there were an estimated 663 wolves in 49 breeding pairs. The recovery goal has been exceeded every year since, and threats to the species have been addressed. Currently, the wolf population in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming exceeds 100 breeding pairs and 1,500 wolves. Does Wyoming now have an approved state law and wolf management plan? Yes, Wyoming state law was changed to give Wyoming Game and Fish Department the legal authority to maintain the wolf population of at least 15 breeding pairs and at least 150 wolves in mid-winter, including maintaining at least 7 wolf breeding pairs in suitable habitat in northwestern Wyoming outside the national parks – con
