California’s latest 2026 wolf depredation investigations report confirms continued livestock losses and expanding wolf territory across Northern and Sierra Nevada regions. Year-over-year increases in depredation incidents and wolf population estimates highlight growing overlap with major California deer hunting zones.
Targeted action in northern Idaho marks first wolf removal effort of its kind in the Panhandle region. Officials say the move is aimed at improving struggling elk populations, while critics question long-term strategy.
As predator populations expand across California, lawmakers heard blunt testimony from ranchers, hunters, and wildlife managers about livestock losses, public safety, and limited management tools. The hearing underscored the widening gap between predator protection policies and the realities faced by rural communities.