Wolves in Colorado
Proposition 114, now state statute 33-2-105.8, passed on November 3, 2020. It directed the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to develop a plan to introduce and manage gray wolves in Colorado west of the Continental Divide no later than December 31, 2023. Ten wolves were reintroduced to the state in December, 2023 as part of this plan.
Wolves in Colorado
Proposition 114, now state statute 33-2-105.8, passed on November 3, 2020. It directed the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission to develop a plan to introduce and manage gray wolves in Colorado west of the Continental Divide no later than December 31, 2023. Ten wolves were reintroduced to the state in December, 2023 as part of this plan.
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Monthly Collared Gray Wolf Activity February 25, 2025 - March 25, 2025
Map
Tracking Collared Wolf Activity
Collared Gray Wolf Activity February 25, 2025 - March 25, 2025
Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Collared Gray Wolf Activity Map will help inform the public, recreationists and livestock producers on where wolves have been in the past month.
Notable Updates
- Wolves continue to make broad movements across many western counties (see map). Wolves are known to travel long distances to find food, mates and space to live.
- Wolf breeding season occurs once per year in February, and pups are born in April or early May. Females will travel with their pack until they give birth, so it is not possible to predict precisely where a den site will be.
As the population of wolves increases in Colorado, the likelihood of pairing, breeding, and pack formation increases. Our goal is to maintain at least two active collars per pack, so this current phase of wolf restoration is unique in that the majority of the wolf population is collared.
Report the Take of Wolves
In addition to being federally protected, gray wolves are also a state-endangered species in Colorado, and wolves may not be taken (harmed, harassed, or killed) for any reason other than self-defense. The gray wolf in Colorado is protected by the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and state law. Penalties for illegal take can vary and include fines up to $100,000, jail time and loss of hunting privileges.
Anyone with information on the take of an endangered gray wolf in Colorado is encouraged to contact your local CPW office.
Collared Wolf Activity Map
Tracking Wolves
Colorado Parks and Wildlife will implement a thorough post-release monitoring program to assess and modify reintroduction protocols, if necessary, to ensure the highest probability of survival and site retention for released animals. All released wolves will be monitored using satellite GPS collars, which will inform managers on survival and dispersal, as well as future release protocols.
Wolves in Colorado
Wolf Sightings
Colorado Parks and Wildlife typically fields around 100 sighting reports each year. However, wolf reports are typically not considered reliable without strong supporting evidence. When credible reports of wolves are received, we work closely with our federal partners to investigate them. We will continue to work with USFWS and other state, local and NGO partners in sharing information regarding verified sightings with the public.
Report a Sighting
Think You’ve Seen a Wolf?
Help Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologists monitor wolves on the landscapes by filling out the Wolf Sighting Form. Please provide a photo or video, the exact location coordinates or other detailed information for confirmation purposes.
Coyote or Gray Wolf: How to Spot the Differences
Gray wolves are about twice the size of coyotes. They can measure up to 6 feet in length, including tail, and stand approximately 30 inches in height at the shoulder. Female wolves weigh 70–80 pounds, while males weigh around 95–100 pounds.