Historic Move For Wolf Conservation: 12 Collared Gray Wolves Have Been Released In Northern California

In a historic milestone for wolf conservation, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced the successful capture, collaring, and release of 12 gray wolves in northern California. This marks the largest number of satellite-collared wolves in the state, offering a new chance to monitor and protect these majestic creatures. The project aims to provide crucial data on wolf populations, movements, and land-use, ultimately aiding in the recovery of the species after centuries of near-eradication.

Wolves were once found throughout California, but over the past century, they were systematically eradicated due to hunting, habitat loss, and conflicts with livestock. The last known wolf in California was killed in the 1920s, leaving the state without wolves for nearly 90 years. The recent success of these collaring operations, which took place in January 2025 across Siskiyou, Lassen, Plumas, and Sierra counties, is a powerful step toward reversing that tragic history.

“The captures exceeded our expectations and will enhance our ability to monitor our wolf population both for conservation and recovery, and also to help mitigate conflict with livestock,” said Axel Hunnicutt, CDFW’s Statewide Gray Wolf Coordinator. The 12 newly collared wolves include both males and females from three different packs: Whaleback, Harvey, and Beyem Seyo. With these new collars, biologists will be able to track movement patterns, study diet, and monitor the health of these wolves, gathering vital information for their protection.

This effort isn’t just about gathering data. It’s about creating a foundation for the gray wolves to thrive again in California. By providing insight into their behavior and movements, the CDFW can better understand their needs, reduce conflicts with human activities, and help prevent the pressures that once led to their near-extinction.

The work being done in California is not just important for the state—it’s part of a larger movement to support wolf conservation across the United States. The recovery of the gray wolf is emblematic of what can be achieved when communities, conservationists, and policymakers come together. The success of this program also signals hope for other regions and wildlife populations in need of protection.

“California has been going all out to understand and support its growing wolf population (we wish we could say the same for other states),” said Leslie Williams and Samantha Attwood, founding members of Team Wolf. “We appreciate CDFW’s commitment to learning and taking proactive steps for Californians to live alongside wolves on the landscape. We hope this research is used responsibly and that they remain committed to giving these wolves a fighting chance to flourish in the state.”

By supporting policies that protect wolves, advocating for wildlife conservation, and staying informed, we can help create a world where these apex predators are not only protected but celebrated. Now is the time for everyone to get involved. If we want gray wolves to roam freely across the U.S. once again, we must unite in their continued protection.

Please support #TeamWolf—an influential pack of passionate advocates, scientists, and conservationists—dedicated to ensuring the long-term recovery and protection of gray wolves. Through collective action, we can safeguard the future of these incredible animals and ensure they remain a vital part of California’s and the nation’s natural heritage for generations to come. Join the #TeamWolf Pack HERE!