Controversy Over Copper Creek Wolf Pack Capture

Colorado Parks and Wildlife captured the Copper Creek wolf pack, consisting of two adults and four pups, due to repeated livestock attacks, but the adult male died from unrelated injuries. This pack was part of the state's wolf reintroduction program, which faced opposition from livestock groups. The decision to relocate the pack instead of killing them sparked controversy; ranchers argued relocation merely transfers the problem, while wildlife advocates emphasized non-lethal conflict measures. The female and pups, who were not involved in the attacks, were spared to protect the nascent restoration effort. The wolves were moved to a secure location for evaluation, and future release plans will be made once the pups can hunt independently.