California wolves prey on cattle

Two new studies from the University of California, Davis examine gray wolf predation on cattle in California. The first study, published in PLOS One, analyzed scat from the Lassen and Harvey packs in northeastern California during summers 2022 and 2023, finding cattle DNA in 72% of samples. The second study, published in Ecology and Evolution, measured cortisol levels in cattle tail hair and found that herds living near wolves had 58% higher cortisol levels, indicating chronic stress. The United States — California Department of Fish and Wildlife estimates nine wolf packs now reside in the state. In response, CDFW allocated $2 million from the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program to four organizations to support non-lethal deterrents. Researchers note that wolves have few natural prey options, as mule deer populations have declined. The studies highlight economic and physiological impacts on livestock beyond direct predation.