UPDATE: Recent wolf activity has escalated in Tehama County, California, alarming residents and livestock producers. Sightings near the Mineral area have intensified, as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) confirms movement from the Ice Cave pack, tracked via their wolf-tracking map.
Residents have reported seeing wolves directly and observing their movements on the CDFW’s updated tracking map. This tool shows real-time locations of collared wolves, indicating significant activity in the Mineral area and surrounding regions. The department stated that the tracking hexagon, designed to balance detail with privacy, has been shifting frequently, raising concerns among locals.
Nate Libal, a senior environmental scientist with the CDFW, emphasizes that this behavior is typical for winter months when wolf packs extend their territories. Currently, the department is monitoring two wolf groups in Tehama County: the Ice Cave pack and the Ishi pack. However, recent reports show no activity from the Ishi pack since March, suggesting they may no longer exist as a viable pack.
In August, a young wolf from the Ice Cave pack was successfully collared, enhancing the CDFW’s tracking capabilities. Previously reliant on camera traps and public reports, the agency now has a clearer picture of wolf movements. Libal stated, “As the wolf matures and winter approaches, expect to see more movement on the online map.”
Livestock producers are particularly concerned about potential wolf interactions. While wolf attacks on humans remain rare, livestock losses are rising. In Tehama County, one presumed wolf attack was later identified as caused by coyotes. Yet, in the greater Sierra Valley, the CDFW reported a staggering 70 livestock losses attributed to the Beyem Seyo pack between May and September 2023, accounting for over 63% of confirmed livestock losses statewide.
Libal urges farmers and ranchers to prepare for potential wolf encounters and recommends implementing deterrent strategies. “Proactive tools and strategies are more likely to be successful than reactive tools,” he noted. Unfortunately, existing measures did not deter the Beyem Seyo pack, leading to the CDFW’s difficult decision in October 2023 to lethally remove four adult wolves from the group, including a breeding pair.
Residents are advised to report any wolf sightings or incidents immediately to the CDFW Law Enforcement. Misidentifications are common; wolves can be mistaken for coyotes or dogs. Livestock producers can also access compensation programs for confirmed wolf attacks through the department.
California’s gray wolves, once nearly eradicated, have been naturally recolonizing the area since 2011. As federally endangered animals, wolves are protected under various laws, including prohibitions against harassment and killing unless in defense of human life.
For further information, residents can contact Nate Libal directly at 530-260-3118 or via email at [email protected]. The CDFW encourages ongoing public engagement in monitoring wolf activity, stating that community reports are vital for effective management.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation as wolf activity continues to impact both wildlife and local communities.
