Mexican Wolf Recovery: Success in the U.S., Setbacks in Mexico

Rahul Somvanshi

Photo Source:- Marumari (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's latest evaluation highlights conservation success for Mexican wolves in the U.S. but concerning setbacks in Mexico.

By late 2023, the U.S. population reached 257 wild wolves, exceeding the interim target of 145.

Photo Source:- Animalia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Photo Source:- Devian Art ( CC BY-NC 3.0)

Genetic diversity remains high, with over 90% of the founding gene pool retained in both U.S. and Mexican populations.

In Mexico, only 35 wolves were recorded in 2022, far below the interim target of 100.

Photo Source:- Zoo New York (CC BY 4.0)

Photo Source:- Memphis CVB (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Human-caused mortality is a major threat, with 61 wolf deaths in the U.S. between 2017 and 2022, yet only two federal prosecutions occurred.

Livestock depredation remains a challenge, with 77 incidents reported in New Mexico by the third quarter of 2024.

Photo Source:- Tambako The Jaguar (CC BY-ND 2.0)

Photo Source:- Animalia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Conservationists argue that recovery is hindered by geographic limits and the absence of subpopulations outside the current recovery area.

Experts emphasize the need for at least 750 wolves in three subpopulations across suitable U.S. habitats.

Photo Source:- Animalia (CC BY-SA 3.0)

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