Shasta County Declares Emergency Over Rising Wolf Encounters
Shasta County has declared a local state of emergency following a spike in gray wolf sightings and livestock attacks in rural areas. The decision, made by county supervisors last week, comes amid growing concern from residents over the behavior of the wolves.
“These wolves are showing no fear of people and are attacking livestock near family homes,” said Supervisor Corkey Harmon, who sponsored the resolution. “We need better tools and immediate action to keep our rural communities safe.”
Since late 2024, multiple livestock deaths have been confirmed in eastern Shasta County and linked to gray wolves. The county also sent a letter to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), urging the agency to step in and help protect the public.
Shasta joins a growing list of Northern California counties—Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, and Sierra—that have declared similar emergencies in recent weeks due to wolf-related concerns.
While gray wolves are protected as an endangered species in California, their return has stirred controversy. After disappearing from the state for decades, they have reestablished several packs in the north. As of 2024, seven wolf packs have been confirmed in the state, according to CDFW.
Residents are encouraged to report any wolf sightings to CDFW as the agency continues monitoring the expanding population.
