Slight Increase in Minnesota Wolf Population

DNR's latest survey shows an small uptick in wolf populations

The latest survey of Minnesota’s wolf population estimates a slight increase.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says the annual survey ticked upward to 2,278 wolves, that’s about 50 more than last year’s estimate.

Great Lakes wolves went off the endangered species list in 2012, and Minnesota soon allowed annual wolf hunts. The animal was placed on the federal threatened list in 2014, and no hunt was held last winter. This is the first survey since hunts were suspended.

The DNR says change is not a significant one, but it shows that the population is healthy and stable at this time.