Oregon wolf population reaches record 200 for first time since 1990s

OREGON - The state's wolf population has reached 200 for the first time since the 1990s, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The wolf population in Oregon grew by 15 percent last year, marking the most significant increase in five years.

Wolves play a crucial role in the ecosystem by preventing the overpopulation of animals like deer and elk. This helps to ensure that these animals do not graze excessively near water, which can negatively impact birds and small animals.

Bethany Cotton, Conservation Director with Cascadia Wildlands, highlighted the importance of wolves in maintaining wildlife health. Wolves tend to target sick or weakened animals which helps prevent the spread of illnesses like chronic wasting disease among wildlife, according to Cotton.

While wolves are predators, Cotton emphasized that they pose very little risk to humans. "One thing that's important to note is that there is a lot of mythology about wolves, but they are not inherently dangerous. They are, a native species to this area. There are very few documented wolf attacks in history. You are far more likely to be hit by lightning or killed by a vending machine than to have a negative encounter with wolves," she stated.

The biggest threat to wolves is poaching. Last year, a male wolf was killed by a poisoned cow carcass. This incident also affected other predators and birds. In Oregon, killing a wolf is a felony, and there are active rewards for those who provide information about wolf poaching.

Cotton also noted that overpopulation is not a concern with wolves. "They are a self-regulating species much like bears and will not continue to breed if there is not enough resources in the area," she added.