CDFW has posted depredation investigation reports from July 13 and July 15, 2019 to the CDFW Gray Wolf web page. These reports confirm two deaths by wolves of yearling calves in Lassen County and also include information about injuries to three additional animals. This represents the largest depredation event by wolves thus far since the return of wolves to the state. CDFW appreciates the enormous challenges associated with living with such an iconic species of predator and the impacts that are suffered by the owner of the calves. CDFW is aware of the damage that wolves can cause to cattle producers, not only in the deceased animals, but in resources spent on exclusion and additional stress to the herd. After the depredations, the producer moved the herd quickly preventing further attacks.
CDFW will continue to bring the best available management practices to work with the agricultural communities and local leaders throughout current wolf range to deter conflict to the extent possible. At this time, we are planning upcoming local stakeholder outreach to discuss depredation events and next steps for living with wolves in the state. Please stay tuned for additional information.