Wyoming is reducing the wolf hunt by 50% due to a canine distemper outbreak, which significantly reduced wolf populations.
The wolf hunting limit is set at 22, the lowest since hunting was allowed after Endangered Species Act protections were lifted in 2012.
The population in the trophy game area decreased by 19% to 132 wolves in 2025, below the state’s objective of 160.
The largest reduction in hunting limits will be in the Jackson region, while limits in the Cody, Lander, and Pinedale regions remain relatively stable.
Canine distemper was detected in 64% of the wolves biologists handled during routine capture work last year. This matters because the disease is particularly deadly for young wolves, hindering population growth.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is responding to a sharp decline in the wolf population, primarily due to a canine distemper outbreak. The state’s proposed hunt for 2026 aims to help the wolf population recover in the trophy game area. Wyoming’s objective is to maintain at least 10 breeding pairs in the trophy game area to meet its obligations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2025, there were exactly 10 breeding pairs, highlighting the urgency of the situation. There are major differences in how Montana and Idaho hunt wolves, and it’s unclear if those states will decrease hunting pressure near Yellowstone National Park. Public meetings will be held in Jackson, Cody, Pinedale, and Lander to discuss the wolf hunting proposals. Public comments can be submitted through June 10.
Q: Why is Wyoming reducing the wolf hunt?
Due to a canine distemper outbreak that significantly reduced the wolf population.
Q: What is the new hunting limit?
The new limit is 22 wolves, a 50% reduction from previous years.
Q: Where will the largest reduction in hunting limits occur?
The Jackson region will see the largest reduction.
Wyoming has cut its wolf hunt in half to help the population recover after a disease outbreak.
The decision impacts primarily the Yellowstone region, with the most significant changes in the Jackson area.
Public input is encouraged through June 10 via the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website.
Do you think these measures will be enough to help the wolf population recover? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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