Wolves kill cattle near Florence, Superior
Posted: July 11, 2008 03:51 PM CDT
Updated: July 11, 2008 03:53 PM CDT
Biologists have killed two wolves after attacks on cattle that occurred in the Bitterroot and Clark Fork valleys this past week.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials removed the wolves after they killed a pair of calves near Florence, and a 600 pound heifer near Superior.
Federal officials confirmed the calves near Florence were killed by two to three wolves from the Brooks Creek pack, which had also chased other cattle through a fence.
Wildlife Services killed one of the wolves on private land on Friday and say that they'll continue to watch for other wolves that might have to be eliminated if there are more attacks.
Biologists believe the attack in Mineral County was done by wolves from the Superior pack and one wolf was killed Friday, and biologists believe that should take care of the problems there.
However, they will be working with ranchers on other methods to deter future cattle attacks.
The Northern Rocky Mountain wolf population was removed from the federal Endangered Species list in late March and FWP is now the lead agency for wolf conservation and management in Montana on non-tribal lands.
Under Montana law, wolves can only be killed if seen actively killing or threatening to kill livestock or animals used to guard or herd livestock. Wolves can also be removed if they are seen killed or attacking pets, or to protect human life.
All incidents must be reported to FWP within 72 hours.