When Wolves Lose Fear of Humans

Last week a successful joint Mid-year meeting happened for the Washington and the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association in Pendleton. Wallowa County Chief Deputy Fred Steen spoke to ranchers about how to identify a wolf depredation. One topic that Steen brought up was wolf habituation which should concern folks who live in rural areas with or without livestock. Steen explains
Steen: “Habitation is essentially the lack of fear. Lack of innate fear of a region, or a home area, fear of people essentially.”
Steen shares a story of one sheepherder who was trying to protect his sheep herd from wolves.
Steen: “He came out of his sheepherder’s wagon and confronted — I believe — it was three wolves. He went back inside and got a handgun which the rancher had provided him. He did what was being suggested — which is to fire in the air to scare them away. He said they stood there and looked at him.”
Steen mentioned that in Wallowa County wolves have been seen hanging out near school bus stops and other areas that don’t necessarily include livestock.
Steen: “If you live in an area that we have wolves propagating then you need to be aware of your surroundings. If you noticing one hanging out and just observing which is consistent with their behavior — that is how they learn. You need to notify the local law enforcement folks. Let them notify the Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife or the department of whatever state you are in.”