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Authorities Plan to Kill Wolves Suspected in Livestock Deaths

By Beacon Staff

AUGUSTA (AP) – Wildlife authorities are planning to kill three wolves that are part of a pack suspected of killing five livestock animals since January.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services said the wolves attacked the animals at a ranch about 15 miles southwest of Augusta.

The wolves, part of the Monitor Mountain Pack, killed a 650-pound heifer on Thursday, authorities said.

“That’s a signal to us they are starting to recognize livestock as food,” said Carolyn Sime, wolf coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Gary Bertellotti, regional supervisor for FWP in Great Falls, said one adult wolf and two pups will be targeted.

The adults are likely teaching the pups that “cow meat is good,” he said.

The pack has taken up residence along the southern end of the Rocky Mountain Front. Wildlife authorities have radio collared the alpha male and confirmed that he and a female produced six pups.