By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Tuesday, June 7th, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
WALLOWA COUNTY – An Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Depredation Investigation reports a confirmed wolf depredation in the Cow Creek Area of Wallowa County.
June 4, 2022 – Wallowa County A (Crow Creek area)
Date Investigated: 6/4/22 Cause of death/injury: Confirmed
General situation and animal information: On the morning of 6/4/22, a livestock producer located an injured 2 ½-month-old,245 lb. calf. Due to the severity of the injuries, the calf was euthanized immediately prior to the investigation. It was estimatedthat the injuries were sustained 24-48 hours prior.
Physical evidence and summary of findings: The carcass was shaved, skinned, and examined. There were numerous pre-mortem bite scrapes measuring up to ¼ inch wide and five inches long on the hindquarters, on both rear flanks and groin, at the right front shoulder, and at the base of the tail. There were pre- mortem tooth punctures on the left flank and right inner thigh, including tissue damage 1 ½ inches deep. The size and location of the bite wounds and severity of trauma are similar to those observed in other calves attacked by wolves. This depredation is attributed to the Chesnimnus Pack.