Dispersing Gray Wolf Spotted Along Cascade Lakes Highway
A radio-collared gray wolf from the Indigo Pack has been spotted frequently around the Cascade Lakes Highway corridor. ODFW says OR-213 is dispersing through the eastern Cascades and reminds people to keep their distance.
ODFW says OR-213 is traveling through the eastern Cascades after leaving the Indigo Pack
CENTRAL OREGON, Ore. - A radio-collared gray wolf from the Indigo Pack has been spotted frequently around the Cascade Lakes Highway corridor in recent weeks, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The male wolf, identified as OR-213, has been traveling throughout the eastern slopes of the Cascades. ODFW said it has received numerous reports from people who have seen the wolf during his travels.
Young wolves commonly leave their family packs as they mature. Known as dispersal, the behavior allows wolves to search for a mate, suitable habitat and an opportunity to establish a territory of their own.
Dispersing wolves may travel hundreds or even thousands of miles and typically do not remain in the same location for long.
ODFW said OR-213 may appear lean, but his condition is not considered unusual. Wolves are generally at their leanest during late summer after shedding their summer coats. OR-213 is also covering long distances as he moves through the region.
Although wolves are generally shy and tend to avoid people, ODFW is reminding residents and visitors to give any wolf they encounter plenty of space. People should not approach, follow, feed or attempt to interact with the animal.
If a wolf is lingering near a roadway, motorists should remain at a safe distance and may honk their horn to encourage it to move along. Anyone who encounters a wolf while recreating on foot should make noise and wave their arms to appear larger.
ODFW cautioned that any wild animal can become dangerous if it is cornered, injured, sick or accustomed to being around people. Those who encounter a wolf should keep their distance and leave the animal a clear route to escape.
Wolf sightings can be submitted through the ODFW Wolf Reporting Form.
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