Multiple Wolf Attacks Reported

Tom Darby

Susanville, Calif. — The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office is reporting multiple wolf depredation incidents near Willow Creek Ranch, north of Susanville, following investigations conducted in early January.

According to the sheriff’s office, on Jan. 1, deputies learned of an attack on a horse and a calf by wolves at Willow Creek Ranch along Horse Lake Road. USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services personnel were already on scene when deputies arrived and began coordinating with the property owners.

Investigators reported finding blood and wolf tracks throughout a pasture adjacent to the residence. The blood trail extended from the southern fence line to the eastern side of the pasture and came close to a children’s playground on the property.

The sheriff’s office said the horse suffered a severe injury to its right hindquarter, described as a deep avulsion with significant tissue loss. Although the horse was alive during the initial assessment, it ended up euthanized due to the severity of its injuries.

A calf was also found dead in a nearby pasture east of the residence. Investigators documented bite marks on both animals and said the calf weighed approximately 600 pounds.

Based on tracking data and evidence collected at the scene, the sheriff’s office said wolves from the Harvey Pack were located in the area the day before the attacks and believed to be responsible. Officials noted there was no indication the wolves were hunting for food, stating the incidents appeared to involve killing rather than feeding behavior.

On Jan. 3, deputies responded to another reported wolf depredation at Hagata Ranch, southeast of Willow Creek Ranch. In that incident, a calf appeared to have been attacked and eaten. Investigators said the proximity of the attack to both a residence and the earlier incidents again pointed to involvement by the Harvey Pack.

The sheriff’s office reported that Lassen County has experienced 45 wolf depredation incidents overall, with 42 confirmed to involve nearby wolf packs. According to the sheriff’s office, as livestock producers move cattle closer to homes during Winter months, wolves have increasingly encroached into residential areas.

In a letter sent to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the sheriff’s office requested renewed assistance and intervention, citing concerns over public safety, livestock losses, and the increasing proximity of wolf activity to homes. The letter also referenced ongoing state and federal discussions regarding gray wolf management and potential delisting.

The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office says it will continue working with state and federal wildlife agencies while closely monitoring wolf activity in the area.