Yellowstone Wolf Pup Population Hits Record Low Due to Canine Distemper Outbreak
Yellowstone Wolf Pup Numbers Fall to a New Low Since Reintroduction, with a Possible Link to Canine Distemper
Image: Discover Magazine
The gray wolf population in Yellowstone National Park and surrounding areas has declined to its lowest level since their reintroduction, primarily due to a significant outbreak of canine distemper. In 2025, only 31 to 34 of the 87 wolf pups born survived, marking a survival rate of approximately 37%. This situation raises concerns about the long-term health of the wolf population.
- 01In 2025, 64.3% of captured wolves tested positive for canine distemper, significantly higher than the predicted 28%.
- 02Of the 87 wolf pups born in 2025, only 31 to 34 survived, leading to a survival rate of about 37%.
- 03The wolf population in the Wolf Trophy Game Management Area (WTGMA) experienced a 19% decline in 2025.
- 04The survival rate of wolf pups born in Yellowstone National Park was only 47%, the lowest since 1996.
- 05Currently, there are at least 84 wolves in Yellowstone and 132 in the WTGMA, with management aiming for a population of around 160 in the latter.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The gray wolf population in Wyoming, particularly in and around Yellowstone National Park, has reached its lowest point since their reintroduction 30 years ago, largely due to an outbreak of canine distemper. According to the Wyoming Game and Fish’s 2025 wolf monitoring report, the disease has severely impacted wolf pups, with only 31 to 34 of 87 born in 2025 surviving, resulting in a survival rate of approximately 37%. The report indicated that 64.3% of captured wolves tested positive for distemper, far exceeding the predicted 28% based on historical data. The Wolf Trophy Game Management Area (WTGMA) saw a 19% population decline in 2025, emphasizing the disease's impact. In Yellowstone, the survival rate of pups dropped to 47%, the lowest since 1996. Currently, there are 84 wolves in Yellowstone and 132 in the WTGMA, with management aiming to stabilize the population at around 160. Ongoing monitoring and management plans will be essential to ensure the health of these wolves in the future.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The decline in wolf populations due to disease could disrupt the ecological balance in Yellowstone and surrounding areas, affecting other wildlife and plant species.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How should wildlife management address the decline in wolf populations?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.