DNR Announces 2021-22 Overwinter Number of Pack-Associated Wolves

Friday, September 30th, 2022 -- 9:00 AM

(Wisconsin Ag Connection) The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced that the 2021-2022 overwinter number of pack-associated wolves is estimated between 812 and 1,193 animals.

According to the Wisconsin Ag Connection, the agency says the total number of packs is estimated to be between 243 to 352. While the wolf population estimate is lower than the previous winter, the current count remains nearly as large and widespread as it has been in recent years.

The observed decline does not indicate a wolf population in biological jeopardy. Wildlife officials say multiple population indicators point towards a healthy, secure wolf population in Wisconsin. The distribution of wolves and the estimated number of packs in the state was similar to past years.

The average home range size of wolves this year was estimated at 66 square miles, which is also similar to recent years. Meanwhile, the winter tracking surveys did show a decrease in average pack size in all zones from the previous winter.

This decrease is consistent with observations following previous wolf hunting and trapping seasons in Wisconsin. The DNR uses data from multiple sources to monitor wolves in Wisconsin.

These science-based techniques include winter snow tracking surveys, GPS-collared wolves, assessment of mortalities and public observation reports. The data collected annually is a result of a significant amount of on-the-ground monitoring which the department will continue as it is a critical part of maintaining a sustainable population into the future.

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