Trail cameras belonging to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife captured evidence that the grey wolves are back in California. It has been almost 100 years since grey wolves have lived in this state even though some had temporarily wandered down from Oregon.
In 2011, OR7, a wolf that had been radio-collared in Oregon, wandered into California on a temporary excursion. In 2015, two adult grey wolves and five pups were detected in SiskiyouCounty, CA. CDFW Director; Charlton H. Bonham said “This news is exciting for California.” However farmers and cattlemen may not be as enthusiastic. CDFW is working with stakeholders to create a Draft Wolf Management Plan that will soon be released.
In Northern California, some people may have the rare opportunity to observe those five wolf cubs. However, in NorthernSanta CruzCounty four grey fox cubs, or kits, have been cited in the Santa CruzMountains. Dana Weigand, from Felton, said “the pups were so cute. We think the fox family was living under our neighbor’s house while the pups were very little.”
Whereas the grey wolf may grow to weigh 150 pounds, the grey fox may only get to less than 20 pounds. If you travel to SiskiyouCounty and come near a grey wolf, you may want to avoid getting near to it. CDFW recommends that people never approach a wolf. If you see one near by, “Do not run. Make eye contact and act aggressively, making noise while retreating slowly.” https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Mammals/Gray-Wolf/FAQ If you see a grey fox, it will most likely run from you.
