An initial investigation into what killed livestock this fall near Meeker, Colorado has not led to any definitive answers. Ranchers reported the death of about 18 calves and Colorado Parks and Wildlife investigators thought that wolves might be responsible though the state’s only confirmed pack had not been recorded anywhere near that area. The investigation has been ongoing since and Colorado Parks and Wildlife has shared that there has been no evidence found that supports that wolves are the responsible culprits. Of the 18 cows that died, five had injuries that might indicate a wolf attack, such as missing tails, bite marks on the hocks and flanks and hamstrings, but there was no evidence that the wolves returned to the prey. Trail cameras and flying overhead to survey areas yielded nothing. Hair and scat that was tested came back inconclusive. While no evidence in the area proves that it was wolves, Colorado Parks and Wildlife recognize that just because there is not confirmed evidence that it is wolves, doesn’t mean that it definitely isn’t. Since the original report of 18 calves, the death toll has increased to around 40. Officials have committed to continue their investigation.
