A domestic cow was likely killed by wolves on public land in the northern Gravelly Mountains. USDA Wildlife Services investigated the incident on Oct. 20 and determined it was a probable wolf depredation.

Cattle riders discovered the freshly killed and consumed carcass while moving cattle off a grazing allotment. Five wolves were on the carcass when it was found.

The depredation occurred in the same area where two livestock depredations were confirmed in August. Two wolves will be removed from the pack, but control work will not likely take place until after the general big game hunting season.

FWP had received credible reports of wolves in the area, but there was no evidence of a pack prior to the August depredations. After the depredations, a wolf was collared and released.