Wolf from Upper Deschutes Pack spotted in residential area near Sunriver

Wildlife biologists say young wolves often leave their family packs at this time of year to find mates, navigating rural neighborhoods.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A wolf from the Upper Deschutes Pack was recently filmed running along a biking path in the Caldera Springs community near Sunriver, Oregon. The sighting was captured in a residential area as the animal traveled between local homes. Wildlife biologists attribute the recent sighting to a combination of low winter snowpack and the current wolf breeding season.

Why it matters

The Upper Deschutes Pack has been established in the area for approximately four years and is considered one of the most visible packs in the region. These types of sightings are becoming more frequent as the low snowpack this winter brings more people into the woods than usual, increasing the chances of wolf and human encounters.

The details

The wolf was recorded crossing a street from the Crosswater Golf Course before entering the entrance of Caldera Springs. It then traveled along a bike path parallel to Huntington Road, running between residential homes. Aaron Bott, a wildlife biologist for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, said young wolves often leave their family packs at this time of year to find mates, which requires them to navigate rural neighborhoods.

  • The Upper Deschutes Pack has been established in the area for approximately four years.
  • If the Upper Deschutes Pack successfully reproduces during the current breeding season, a new litter of pups is expected to be born in April.

The players

Upper Deschutes Pack

A wolf pack that has been established in the area for approximately four years and is considered one of the most visible packs in the region.

Aaron Bott

A wildlife biologist for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife who specializes in Central Oregon wolves.

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What they’re saying

“Their hormones are raging and they only go into heat for a very short period of time. So they're trying to cover huge distances very quickly to make that breeding window.”

— Aaron Bott, Wildlife biologist (KTVZ)

“Perhaps, dogs feel emboldened when they know that their owner is nearby, and the wolves usually retreat from human presence. But again, if your dog gets out of sight and continues to pursue the wolf, it's not unlikely that the wolf will at some point turn and fight. And that can be nasty. For everyone involved.”

— Aaron Bott, Wildlife biologist (KTVZ)

What’s next

ODFW will continue to provide maps of territories and pack pictures on its official website.

The takeaway

This case highlights the increasing interactions between wildlife and residential areas as low snowpack brings more people and animals into closer proximity. It underscores the need for public awareness and responsible pet ownership to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife.