Idaho Fish & Game Kills 3 Wolves to Boost Elk Herd

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Idaho Fish and Game killed three wolves last week in northern Idaho's Unit 4, east of Coeur d'Alene, in what the agency says is the first such targeted wolf removal action in the state's Panhandle region. The goal is to promote elk population growth in the area, which has seen declining elk numbers that Fish and Game attributes in part to wolf predation on elk calves.

Why it matters

This targeted wolf removal by Idaho Fish and Game highlights the ongoing tensions between wildlife management priorities, with the agency seeking to boost elk herds through lethal control of wolves, a protected species. The action also reflects the challenges of balancing predator and prey populations in the region.

The details

According to a press release, the three wolves were removed from Unit 4 east of Coeur d'Alene. This action, along with recent trapping successes by local hunters, has 'substantially reduced' a wolf pack in a key part of the unit. Fish and Game says recent data has shown elk numbers in the area have declined, and wolf predation on elk calves is a contributing factor.

• On February 22, 2026, Idaho Fish and Game killed three wolves in northern Idaho's Unit 4.

What’s next

Idaho Fish and Game will continue to monitor elk and wolf populations in the region and may take additional targeted wolf removal actions if needed to support elk herd growth.