Chapter 7
GRAY WOLF
7.1
Overview
The gray wolf (Canis lupus) is currently listed as threatened in some parts of the State of Idaho, but where it occurs in the action areas, it is listed as experimental/nonessential. Historically, the gray wolf was present throughout much of the region, but it was extirpated from the western states about 1930. An experimental population of gray wolves was introduced into Yellowstone National Park and into central Idaho in 1995 and 1996. Wolves are now reproducing in the uppermost reaches of the Snake River and central Idaho, the upper Deadwood River drainage, and possibly the upper Boise River watershed in the Sawtooth Mountains. This is within the action areas for future O&M in the Snake River system above Milner Dam, the Boise River system, and the Payette River system. However, future O&M in the Snake River system and the Payette River system have no effect on gray wolves.
7.2
Effects Conclusion
It is unlikely that the future O&M in the Boise River system will have a direct effect on gray wolves. However, the gray wolf preys on deer and elk that occur in the action area, and the wolves may be indirectly affected when deer and elk occasionally fall through the ice during winter at Lucky Peak and Arrowrock Reservoirs. The level of mortality to deer and elk does not significantly affect their populations, and there is still ample prey for wolves. Reclamation has determined that future O&M in the Boise River system may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect, the gray wolf experimental population.
November 2004 – Final
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7.2 Effects Conclusion
Gray Wolf
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Final – November 2004