Wisconsin DNR Kills Nine Gray Wolves Amid Criticism Over Safety Concerns and Consultation

Wausau Rhinelander, WI, October 12, 2026 — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has killed nine federally protected gray wolves in Price County, Wisconsin, citing concerns for human safety stemming from repeated encounters. The agency stated that the removals were a necessary response to escalating interactions that posed a risk to the public.

The decision and execution of the wolf removals have drawn criticism from multiple groups. Tribal wildlife leaders expressed dismay, reporting that they felt excluded from the decision-making process. These leaders highlighted the significant cultural connection their communities share with wolves, emphasizing the importance of consultation on matters involving these animals.

Animal advocates also voiced concerns, questioning the necessity of the lethal removals. Their position suggests a belief that alternative non-lethal methods could have been employed or that the threat to human safety was not sufficiently grave to warrant such action.

In response to the criticism regarding consultation, the Secretary of the Wisconsin DNR has issued an apology. The apology specifically addressed the lack of adequate consultation with tribal partners prior to the wolf removals. This acknowledgment indicates a potential procedural lapse in engagement with key stakeholders.

The wolves in question were federally protected, meaning their removal is subject to specific federal regulations. The circumstances leading to the DNR’s intervention, specifically the nature and frequency of the ‘repeated encounters’ cited as a justification for the action, have not been further detailed. The specifics of the consultation process, including who was approached and when, remain points of contention and focus for review following the incident.

Story summarized from the original created by Shaina Nijhawan on www.wsaw.com, see more information here.

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