Oregon Wolf Population Grows to 204 in 2024

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Oregon's wolf population jumped 15% to 204 wolves in 2024, breaking the 200 mark for the first time since their return to the state in 2008.

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After years of flat growth, wolf numbers finally increased from 178, with packs growing from 22 to 25 and breeding pairs rising to 17.

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Wolves are pushing westward across Oregon, with 24% now living in the Western Zone and seven breeding pairs established there, up from just three in 2023.

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Human-caused deaths remain a serious threat, with 22 of 26 wolf deaths in 2024 attributed to humans, including seven illegal killings.

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Four wolves died from poison, causing "gruesome, painful deaths," while 14 wolves were legally killed due to livestock conflicts.

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Attacks on livestock dipped slightly to 69 incidents, but included a record number of sheep killed (62), prompting $789,565 in compensation to ranchers.

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Protection levels vary across Oregon - wolves in western areas remain federally protected, while eastern wolves lost federal protection in 2011.

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Wildlife officials will present their full report on April 18, detailing efforts to fight poaching, manage livestock conflicts, and monitor the growing population.

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