Needless to say, wolves are a hot topic here in the Treasure State.

Recently, the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Department released its wolf report, which revealed the state's wolf population and overall health.

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Wolf Hunting In Montana

In 2023, wolf hunting increased; however, this had little impact on the wolf population in Montana.

Montana biologists are anticipating a decrease in populations this next year due to hunting this fall.

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Wolves In Montana

Hunting regions three and four in Montana did see a slight population decline.

According to the report, region three decreased from 214 wolves in 2022 to 178 wolves in 2023.

The report showed that the overall wolf numbers remained fairly stable.

Biologists estimate approximately 1,100 wolves statewide, which is fairly consistent with the 2022 numbers.

Wolf Management In Montana

Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks chief of conservation policy Quentin Kujala, emphasized the agency's commitment to managing wolf populations sustainably.

The wolf report showed that the 2023 and 2024 hunting seasons resulted in the state's harvest of 286 wolves.

Proposed regulations for the 2024-2025 wolf and fur bear season show a harvest quota of 334 wolves compared to 313 last season.

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Wolves and Livestock Conflicts

Interestingly, the report noted a slight decrease in livestock conflicts in 2023.

Wildlife services did confirm that 32 livestock losses due to wolves were reported.

Check out the full wolf report HERE

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