Mexican authorities to release Mexican wolves in Sonora

PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department has been informed that Mexican authorities plan to release five Mexican wolves this month at an undisclosed ranch location in northeastern Sonora, Mexico. While the department does not know the specific date or other details at this time, it has received indications that the wolves being released will be fitted with satellite tracking collars. Game and Fish is currently considering what, if any, impacts this release might have on Arizona’s Mexican wolf conservation and stakeholders. The department will continue to monitor activities related to the planned release and inform constituents as information becomes available. Arizona Game and Fish has been actively involved in the multi-partner effort reintroducing Mexican wolves to portions of their historical range in the east-central portion of the state for many years. In 1998, 11 captive-reared Mexican wolves were released into the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA) in eastern Arizona. The current population was assessed to be around 50 animals during 2011 monitoring. The Mexican wolf is considered endangered in the United States.

Press Release.

This will raise some interesting issues under the ESA if these wolves cross into the U.S.