California Gray Wolf Return

Endangered Gray Wolf Sighting in Lake County Sparks Hopes for California Population Growth

A rare gray wolf was spotted in Lake County, California, late August, a sign that the endangered species is expanding its presence in California. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife confirmed the sighting and photos taken in the area where Mendocino, Glenn and Lake counties meet. The first one documented in California since 1924 was a wolf called OR7, who made his way from Oregon in 2011. At least 50 wolves are known to be in California, and it's illegal to hunt, pursue, harass, catch, capture or kill the gray wolf. The appearance of the canine in Lake county is particularly significant as much of the species' recovery has occurred east of Interstate 5. The White House is reviewing the protection of the endangered wolf in an effort to support U.S. ranchers.

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