A reward of over $100,000 is being offered for information that leads to a prosecution in the possible killing of a female Mexican gray wolf, known as F2979, found dead near Flagstaff. The wolf was first documented this summer outside of the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area and was captured, equipped with a GPS collar, and released in July. Efforts were being made to relocate her and another Mexican gray wolf back to the experimental population area when she was found dead. The cause of death has not been shared, but it was stated as unrelated to agency management actions. Killing a Mexican wolf is a violation of state law and the Federal Endangered Species Act and can result in criminal penalties and fines.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, along with other agencies and organizations, is funding the reward for information leading to a prosecution. The fate of the other Mexican gray wolf seen with F2979 is unknown. Anyone with information is urged to contact U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service special agents. The situation highlights the ongoing battle over the place of Mexican gray wolves in the landscape and the efforts to protect them from harm and extinction.
Photo credit
www.azcentral.com