Elk NetworkMichigan Wolf Population Continues to Grow

Conservation | June 15, 2018

The latest count by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) shows a minimum population of 662 wolves in Michigan, more than three times larger than state population objective of 200.

“Based on our latest minimum population estimate, it is clear wolf numbers in Michigan remain viable and robust,” said Russ Mason, chief of the DNR’s wildlife division. “A similar trend is apparent in Wisconsin and Minnesota. The western Great Lakes states’ wolf population is thriving and has recovered.”

Recent reports indicate the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may seek to delist wolves in the Great Lakes region. The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation agrees with that approach maintaining that wolves, like elk, deer, mountains lions and other wildlife, should be managed as per the North American Wildlife Conservation Model.

Since the winter of 1993-94, combined wolf numbers in Michigan and Wisconsin have surpassed 100, meeting federally established goals for population recovery. The Michigan recovery goal of a minimum sustainable population of 200 wolves for five consecutive years was achieved in 2004.

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(Photo source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources)