IDFG Biologists have evidence that wolves are the primary cause of shrinking elk herds in Northern Idaho. I never would have guessed… OK, that’s enough sarcasm. Truth be told, the Fish and Game fought with the Feds over the reintroduction, so they’ve been stuck with the wolves just as us sportsmen are.
It is estimated that cow elk numbers in the Lolo Hunting Zone decrease as much as 13% PER YEAR! State wildlife biologist George Pauley says that the elk in this area need a 90% survival rate each year to maintain a healthy population. Currently, only about 75% of the elk survive each year. Idaho Fish & Game has requested permission to have federal trappers kill wolves in this region, but they would rather see wolves de-listed and let hunters take care of the predator problem.
I’m afraid this is a problem that is only going to continue to get worse. I think that the glory days of elk hunting in Idaho are over for the time being. We can hope that things will change, but with the current political climate I wouldn’t bet on it.
OK, I’ll get off my soapbox now. Sorry, I get a little worked up.
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