DNA Tests Confirm Gray Wolves In Okanogan County

Camera records adult, pups

The Associated Press

July 24, 2008, 1:17 PM PDT

OLYMPIA — Washington state wildlife officials say genetic tests have confirmed that two animals captured last Friday in western Okanogan County are wild, gray wolves. Before releasing the wolves - a male and a lactating female - biologists fitted them with radio collars to track their movements.

The state Fish and Wildlife Department also noted Wednesday that a remote camera operated by a private group photographed the male wolf at a location where six pups were also photographed.

Grey Wolf Pups

Wildlife officials say this is the first documented resident wolf pack in Washington since the 1930s.

The state wildlife department's director, Jeff Koenings says it's evidence of a functioning ecosystem.

Koenings added that a state wolf conservation and management plan must be finalized.

Gray wolves are considered endangered in Washington state.