Illegal Wolf Killing in Grand County Highlights Need for Broad Accountability, Focus on Coexistence
Gunshot Wound Confirmed as Cause of Death for Copper Creek Pack Male Gray Wolf 2309-OR
Grand County, Colo.—Yesterday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced they are investigating the illegal killing of a gray wolf in Grand County.
The wolf, identified as 2309-OR, was the father of the Copper Creek pack—the first pack to produce pups after reintroduction. The pack was captured by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in August 2024 and slated for relocation after nearby ranchers refused to follow best practices for coexistence, but 2309-OR died in captivity days after capture and one pup was never found.
When 2309-OR was captured, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials described him as being “in poor health.” Tragically, he died on September 3, 2024. Now, USFWS is releasing the results of the necropsy, which revealed that his condition and death were caused by a gunshot wound.
In response, Michelle Lute, PhD, executive director at Wildlife for All issued the following statement:
“The illegal killing of a gray wolf in Grand County is an appalling act of violence against one of nature’s most vital and misunderstood predators. This crime threatens not only ecosystem health and wolf recovery, but also calls into question the safety of wolves across Colorado. We call on state and federal officials to increase transparency and accountability while investigating this incident swiftly and thoroughly.”
“For too long, wolves have been scapegoated and targeted with violence. This tragedy underscores the need for comprehensive reforms in wildlife governance to foster coexistence and accountability. Losing one of the first breeding males in the state in many decades highlights the urgent need to strengthen protections for wolves and ensure accountability for those who harm them.
“We also call on media agencies and outlets to increase the accuracy of reporting to prevent false narratives. It’s time to stop giving outsized attention to overstated controversy and instead, focus on solutions. There are nearly 3 million head of cattle and sheep combined in Colorado, and last year, there were only 17 confirmed wolf kills: said another way, 0.0006% of livestock died from wolf attacks last year. In contrast, approximately 3.5%—more than 100,000 cows and calves—die from respiratory and digestive illnesses annually in Colorado.
“We must recognize the critical role wolves play on the landscape and respect that they are here to stay. Wildlife belongs to all of us, and it is our collective responsibility to protect it.”
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About Wildlife for All
Wildlife for All is a national organization dedicated to reforming wildlife management to be more democratic, just, compassionate and focused on protecting wild species and ecosystems. Through research, advocacy, and education, we aim to protect wildlife and ensure that policies reflect the values of all Americans.