FWP cuts wolf population estimate, proposes new hunting and trapping quotas

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) proposed new wolf hunting and trapping regulations for the 2026-27 season after releasing its 2025 Annual Wolf Report, which uses an updated population and distribution prediction model that estimates fewer wolves statewide than previously believed. The proposal has drawn criticism from conservation groups, which argue the quotas could reduce wolves to the lowest levels allowed under Montana law. The report compares projections from iPOM 1.0 and iPOM 2.0, with iPOM 1.0 estimating 181 packs and 1,094 wolves in 2025, while iPOM 2.0 estimates 155 packs and 725 wolves. FWP says it has been developing iPOM 2.0 for several years, though the model has not yet been peer reviewed. The proposed statewide harvest quota for 2026-27 is 250 wolves, and FWP says that if met, the statewide population would remain above 450 wolves. The plan’s targets are tied to maintaining at least 15 breeding pairs.