Despite ESA relisting, Idaho to seek permission to kill 40% of its wolf population
Idaho (Reuters) - Idaho game officials said on Friday they would seek federal approval to kill off hundreds of wolves in their state despite a court ruling that restored protection of the animals under the Endangered Species Act.
In a conference call with reporters, Idaho Fish and Game officials said they remained determined to carry out a plan, nixed by Thursday's court ruling, that calls for reducing Idaho's wolf population by over 40 percent, to 500 from 845.
One wolf pack in particular, a group of 100 animals in northern Idaho, is targeted for reduction by 80 percent.