Trapping effectively extirpated the wolf from the Northwest by the 1930's. In the United States wolves have been reduced to a fraction of their former range, and as a result have been listed as an endangered species. However, there is evidence that during the past decade wolves have begun to return to the Washington Cascades. Just last summer an adult and pup were seen in the Pasayten Wilderness and there have been other observations as far south as the Columbia River. The pack is headed by an alpha pair, which is usually the only breeding couple.
Wolves primarily eat large mammals such as deer and elk.
Wildlife researchers believe that by killing the sickest and weakest of the herd, wolves are helping maintain the vitality of the prey species. Graceful, intelligent and wild, the wolf is a symbol of the North Cascades. Work Outdoors at GORP Jobs Click Here. All rights reserved.