$10,000 Reward For Information On The Illegal Killing Of Two Endangered Gray Wolves In Washington

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), in collaboration with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), is requesting the public’s help in investigating the illegal killings of two endangered gray wolves in Washington State—one in Klickitat County and another in Okanogan County. A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest, criminal conviction, or civil penalty in each case.

On October 6th, 2024, WDFW staff investigated the death of an adult male gray wolf. This incident occurred east of the Klickitat River near U.S. Highway 142 and Goldendale, in Klickitat County, Washington.

On October 20th, 2024, WDFW staff carried out a second investigation regarding another deceased wolf. The adult female wolf was discovered southwest of Twisp in Okanogan County, Washington.

“These killings are tragic and unacceptable, serving as a reminder that state-sanctioned killing of wolves can lead to illegal killing, because wildlife officials are sending a message that ‘wolves don’t matter.’ Since August, WDFW has killed four state-endangered wolves to benefit private industry. Just one day after the illegal killings were announced, WDFW notified the public of their plans to potentially kill another state endangered wolf,” Regan Downey, Director of Education for Wolf Conservation Center, told WAN.

“Washington wolves are protected under the Endangered Species Act, meaning these poachers have committed a serious federal crime,” said Leslie Williams and Samantha Attwood, founding members of The #RelistWolves Campaign. “That these killings happened just two weeks apart is extremely concerning. The best way to ensure poachers aren’t further emboldened is to hold them accountable. We urge anyone with information to come forward to help stop this senseless and illegal violence.”

The war on wolves is an ongoing conflict between conservation efforts and those seeking to eradicate or control wolf populations, often fueled by misconceptions, political pressure, and hunting. Despite being vital to ecosystems, wolves are frequently targeted through poaching, hunting, and legislative actions aimed at stripping away their protections. This battle threatens the survival of these beautiful apex predators, pushing them closer to extinction in some regions, while environmentalists fight to restore federal protections and ensure their future in the wild.

Wolves play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling prey populations and promoting biodiversity. Beyond their ecological importance, wolves have intrinsic value as sentient beings and deserve protection from cruelty and exploitation, ensuring they remain a part of our natural heritage for future generations.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and WDFW are conducting a joint investigation. Anyone with information about this case should call the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service using the FWS TIPs line at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477) or submit a tip HERE!

Anyone with information can also call 877-933-9847 or send an email to reportpoaching@dfw.wa.gov. Callers may remain anonymous.