Wolf Populations Decline as Territories Expand in the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem
Wolf Populations Decline as Territories Expand in the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem
The wolf population in the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem has declined by 15% over the past year, according to recent data. This decrease was primarily driven by a 20% increase in territory size. As wolf territories expand, fewer packs can coexist within a given area, resulting in lower overall population density—assuming pack sizes remain consistent.
Interestingly, pack size remained almost unchanged, averaging 4.3 wolves per pack this year compared to 4.2 wolves the previous year. This stability can be attributed to the consistent number of pups raised per pack, which held steady at 1.71 pups per pack this year versus 1.72 last year.
Despite the 20% expansion in territory size, the decline in wolf density was only 15%. Researchers explain that this smaller-than-expected decrease occurred because territorial overlap among packs increased slightly, offsetting some effects of the larger territories.
Scientists are not surprised by this expansion. Wolves naturally adjust their territory size in response to fluctuations in prey availability. With low deer densities currently observed in the region, wolves have likely been forced to roam over larger areas to find enough food. In essence, the decline in wolf density reflects an ecological adjustment to reduced deer numbers rather than an alarming population collapse.
Even so, the report notes that wolf densities remain relatively high—currently at 55 wolves per 1,000 square kilometers. While this is slightly below the 10-year average of 60 wolves per 1,000 square kilometers, it still represents a healthy and stable population compared to historical trends.
For those interested in deeper insights, the 2023–2024 population report (linked in the comments) provides detailed summaries for each wolf pack within the Greater Voyageurs Ecosystem.
Special thanks go to Kim Boustead, whose exceptional design work brought this year’s report to life. Many of the visually stunning graphics from the Voyageurs Wolf Project are a testament to her skill and creativity.
