We are deeply saddened to report that an endangered Mexican gray wolf named Ella was found dead in New Mexico on Sunday, March 30th. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has stated that the cause of her death is currently under investigation. She was named “Ella” by schoolchildren and had recently made headlines for traveling north of Interstate 40 near Mount Taylor.
Ella’s sighting near Mount Taylor was exciting news, as the area represents pristine habitat teeming with wildlife, including large herds of elk that range from its northeastern foothills to the plateau of Mount Taylor. This region would likely have been home to wolves for millennia before their extinction in the wild due to human activity.
In addition to being ideal habitat for Mexican gray wolves, Mount Taylor holds significant cultural importance to various Indigenous peoples, including the Navajo, Acoma, Laguna, Hopi, Zuni, and many others. The area is home to approximately 1,000 cultural sites and carries profound ceremonial and historical value.
As of the latest annual census, there are only 162 known Mexican gray wolves living in the wild in New Mexico, according to the agencies responsible for managing the species.
“We’re saddened by the news of Ella’s death – her intrepid wanderings quickly captivated the nation and reminded us that Mexican gray wolves belong north of I-40. Lobos continue to tell us what they need in order to thrive, and it’s time we listen,” Regan Downey, director of education at the Wolf Conservation Center, told WAN.
According to the Wolf Conservation Center, the Mexican gray wolf, or lobo, is the smallest, most genetically distinct of its species, and one of the rarest subspecies of the gray wolf. Native to the southwestern United States, these wolves were listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1976 after being eradicated in the wild. While reintroduction efforts began in 1998, conservation efforts have faced many challenges due to the lack of full implementation of recommended recovery actions. Unfortunately, illegal mortality remains the leading cause of death for Mexican gray wolves.
“We are devastated by the loss of Ella, a young wolf whose journey was a powerful reminder of what’s at stake for the future of Mexican gray wolves,” said Leslie Williams and Samantha Attwood, founding members of Team Wolf. “The loss of Ella is a stark reminder that wolves need room to roam, while we mourn her loss, we are determined to ensure that future generations of wolves have the opportunity to thrive and expand beyond arbitrary boundaries.”
Killing a Mexican gray wolf is a violation of state law and the Federal Endangered Species Act, and can result in criminal penalties of up to $50,000, as well as up to one year in jail and/or a civil penalty of up to $25,000.
Conservationists and agencies have joined forces to offer a combined reward of more than $105,000 for information leading to the conviction of anyone who unlawfully kills a Mexican gray wolf and violates the Endangered Species Act. Individuals with helpful information are encouraged to contact the following agencies: USFWS special agents in Pinetop, Arizona, at (346) 254-0515, or the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish Operation Game Thief at (800) 432-4263.
You can help protect gray wolves in the United States by joining Team Wolf, HERE!
