Confirmed Wolf Depredation in Baker County

By on Monday, October 31st, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

BAKER COUNTY – (Release from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife) 

Date Investigated: 10/27/22

Cause of Death/Injury: Confirmed (1); Possible/unknown (1)

General situation and animal information: On 10/26/22, the carcasses of two approximately 500 lb., 10- month-old calves were found in a 5000-acre private-land pasture. At the time of the investigation, one carcass consisted of the hide of the calf including the locations commonly attacked by wolves, while the other carcass was missing. It was estimated that the calf whose carcass was found died approximately 3 days prior to the investigation. 

Physical evidence and summary of findings: There were more than 25 pre-mortem bite scrapes measuring up to three inches long and 1/8-inch wide on the hide over the right hind leg above the hock with underlying bruising on the carcass that was found. The severity, size, and location of these wounds are consistent with injuries to cattle attacked by wolves. This depredation is attributed to wolves of the Lookout Mountain Pack. As the other carcass was missing when the investigation occurred, the determination for that animal was “Possible/Unknown”.