Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) lethally removed three wolves in northwest Colorado because of their continuing attacks on cattle.

On Sept. 7, CPW removed an uncollared male yearling wolf from the Copper Creek Pack in Pitkin County and an uncollared male yearling from the Three Creeks Pack in Rio Blanco County. According to the Colorado Sun, the agency then killed a female wolf from the One Ear Pack in Grand County two days later on Sept. 9.

Ranchers tried a series of non-lethal but unsuccessful deterrents like range riders, remote cameras, strobe lights and even guard dogs but could not stop the attacks.

“CPW’s field staff in Northwest Colorado is working hard to implement conflict minimization tools and techniques to help reduce wolf-livestock conflict in the region,” said CPW Director Laura Clellan. “We remain committed to both Colorado’s livestock producers and efforts to support our growing wolf population. I would like to thank our staff for their efforts and the impacted producers whose trust and collaboration is crucial as we navigate this challenge.”

In June, CPW also removed an uncollared wolf formerly of the Copper Creek Pack in Routt County because of chronic attacks.

From Jan. 1 to Sept. 6, 2026, Colorado’s wolf population, estimated to number at least 32, killed 33 cattle (bulls, calves, cows and steers) 33 sheep and one dog.

About Hunt 2 Conserve

Hunt 2 Conserve is a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Its mission is to advance a legacy of hunting and conservation by educating, activating and developing stewards and defenders of these fundamentally American ideals. For more information, go to hunt2conserve.org.

(Photo credit: Lori Iverson/UFWS)