Wolf harvest numbers remain consistent

The number of wolves harvested in Montana during the 2015-2016 hunting and trapping seasons was consistent with the harvest numbers from previous years, according to information obtained from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

The trapping season, which ended Feb. 29, saw 73 wolves harvested and reported to FWP officials. Last year 76 wolves were taken during trapping season, down from 2013 and 2012. In those years, respectively, 87 and 97 wolves were harvested by trappers. No trapping data was reported for 2011.

Wolf hunting season ends today, with preliminary numbers showing a slight increase from previous years.

There were 137 wolves harvested during the 2015-2016 season, up seven from the 130 taken in 2014. That number was off slightly from the 143 harvested in 2013.

A new state law allows landowners or their agents to take up to 100 wolves a year that potentially threaten livestock, domestic dogs or human safety. The quota will be examined in four 25-wolf increments. The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission must approve the next increment toward the 100-wolf quota. As of March 14, 2016, just three wolves have been harvested under the new law by Montana landowners.