Three Wolf Pups Still Missing After California Officials Euthanize Adult Pack Members
Weeks after state wildlife officials euthanized the adult members of the Beyem Seyo wolf pack in Sierra Valley, three surviving wolf pups remain on the loose, and time is running out to find them before winter sets in.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) confirmed that the roughly six-month-old juveniles have not yet been captured, despite weeks of ground and aerial searches. The pups, all males, lost their parents earlier this month when officials euthanized the pack’s adults following months of livestock attacks in Plumas and Sierra counties.
The Beyem Seyo pack was responsible for killing 87 cows, calves and sheep in just over six months. After multiple non-lethal deterrence efforts failed, CDFW moved to euthanize the adult wolves — a decision that has sparked debate across the state.
Now, conservationists are concerned about the fate of the orphaned pups. Without their pack, they lack the experience needed to hunt larger prey. “The odds of survival may be low,” said Pamela Flick of Defenders of Wildlife. “They’re missing out on fundamental lessons that shape how a wolf survives into adulthood.”
CDFW teams continue to search by foot, vehicle, and helicopter, using drones, thermal imaging, and diversionary feeding — frozen wild animal carcasses — to track and sustain the wolves. Officials say the pups appear healthy and may be scavenging or catching smaller prey like rabbits or rodents.
If they’re not captured soon, the wolves could face harsh Sierra Valley winter conditions — or potentially form a new pack in the area, reigniting tensions with ranchers.
“CDFW’s goal is to safely collect the juveniles and place them in a care facility for their well-being,” said department spokesperson Jen Benedet.
