Wolves’ Toll on Colorado Livestock: Ranchers Push for Lethal Removal

The reintroduction of wolves in Colorado has been a hot-button issue across the state. Since they were reintroduced in 2023, there has still been a lot of passionate debate about whether or not it was a good idea. On one hand, wolves balance the ecosystem. On the other, wolves are creating many headaches for the livestock industry.

Wolves and Cattle: How Many Have Been Killed?

At the time of writing this, wolves are responsible for killing 24 cattle and sheep. The livestock industry is not satisfied with the methods that they can use to keep their livestock safe.

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Ranchers and the livestock industry have voiced their concerns by sending a letter to Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Colorado Organizations That Sent The Concerns

Various associations sent a letter to Colorado officials including:

• Colorado Cattlemen’s Association
• Routt County Cattlemen’s Association
• Middle Park Stockgrowers Association
• North Park Stockgrowers Association

In June, Colorado Parks and Wildlife voted that ranchers are allowed to take lethal measures if a wolf, which is protected by the state if the wolf is considered chronically depredating. These are wolves that are repeatedly attacking their livestock.

The rancher or livestock organization must ask Colorado Parks and Wildlife before taking matters into their own hands, though.

According to the letter, these organizations believe that Colorado Parks and Wildlife is being too strict regarding instances of wolves being chronically depredating.

Ranchers believe that CPW is still being too strict. Some believe that Colorado Parks and Wildlife is valuing wolves more than their livestock.

Recent Livestock Killings in Colorado

Eight sheep were recently killed in Grand County. More wolves are being born as well, which is adding to the anxiety of ranchers a livestock owners.

Related: [WATCH] Colorado’s First Wolf Pups Recorded Playing in a Puddle