Wisconsin's wolf numbers show 2.2 percent decrease

By RALPH ANSAMI

[email protected]

Wisconsin’s wolf population remains nearly three times higher than the Department of Natural Resources’ goal.

The DNR said Tuesday data suggests the wolf population may have begun to stabilize, however.

Data collected by more than 100 volunteer trackers and DNR staff members during the 2017-18 winter reveal a minimum count of 844 to 925 wolves, a 2.2 percent decrease from the previous count.

The number of packs increased from 232 to 238, however.

Scott Walter, WDNR large carnivore ecologist, said the state’s official wolf population goal is 350 animal...