Confirmed Wolf Depredations in Union County
By Shannon McKone on Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
Union County – (Release from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife)
July 17, 2022 – Union County (Five Point Creek area)
Date Investigated: 7/17/22
Cause of death/injury: Confirmed
General situation and animal information: A ranch manager found a 900-lb, injured, yearling heifer in an 1100-acre private forested pasture on 7/17/22. The estimated time of the injuries were 12-24 hours prior to the investigation.
Physical evidence and summary of findings: Tooth scrapes up to 1/4-inch wide were found on both hind quarters above the hock to the tail, left flank, and behind both elbows varying in length from two to six inches. There were punctures in the hide on the rear of both hindquarters including a one-inch tear. The location and size of injuries are consistent with wolf attacks on cattle. This depredation is attributed to the Five Points Pack.
July 15, 2022 – Union County (Palmer Junction Area)
Date Investigated: 7/15/22
Cause of death/injury: Confirmed
General situation and animal information: On 7/15/22, a ranch manager found an injured, 800 lb., yearling steer in a private land grass pasture. Due to the severity of the injuries, the steer was euthanized. It is estimated the steer was injured approximately 12 hours prior to the investigation.
Physical evidence and summary of findings: Numerous pre-mortem tooth scrapes were observed on the hide on both hindquarters and groin measuring up to four inches in length and ¼ inch in width with associated pre-mortem hemorrhage and trauma to underlying tissues. There was a large open wound with missing muscle tissue on the right hindquarter above the hock. The injuries are consistent with injuries on other cattle attacked by wolves. This depredation is attributed to the Rogue Pack.
