Story perspectives

Washington's Gray Wolf Population Hits Record 270

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Washington's gray wolf population reached a record high of 270 wolves across 49 packs.
The 2025 annual report shows 23 packs are breeding pairs.
Gray wolves were endangered in Washington in 1980 and delisted in 2011.
A 2022 court ruling reinstated protections for wolves outside the Northern Rocky Mountain segment.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service leads recovery under the Wolf Conservation Management Plan to balance restoration with agricultural interests and public understanding.

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Story summary

Washington's gray wolf population reached a record high of 270 wolves across 49 packs.
The 2025 annual report shows 23 packs are breeding pairs.
Gray wolves were endangered in Washington in 1980 and delisted in 2011.
A 2022 court ruling reinstated protections for wolves outside the Northern Rocky Mountain segment.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service leads recovery under the Wolf Conservation Management Plan to balance restoration with agricultural interests and public understanding.