Scientists in Nevada have solved the latest wildlife mystery in the state, confirming that a trio of animals spotted near the Idaho line were not wolves as initially believed, but rather a group of coyotes. Extensive DNA testing was conducted by the Nevada Department of Wildlife, with results showing a 99.9% certainty that the animals in question were coyotes and not wolves. The initial sighting of what was thought to be wolves had generated a great deal of excitement, as wolves had only been spotted in the state once in the past century.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife went to great lengths to set the record straight, in part due to a recent increase in the number of moose migrating into Nevada from Idaho. Prior to 2018, only a few moose had been sighted in Nevada over the previous century, but experts now estimate their numbers to exceed 100. In response to this increase, the Nevada wildlife commissioners have approved the state’s first moose hunting season this fall for just two animals, while scientists continue to study their population and trends. Some had speculated that the wolves may have been pursuing the moose, as wolves are known to prey on young moose in the Northern Rockies, but no evidence of this was found in Nevada.
After the initial spotting of the animals resembling wolves during a helicopter survey, state biologists conducted their own searches via helicopter and on the ground, collecting samples for DNA analysis. Director Alan Jenne emphasized the rigorous examination applied to the samples, with samples sent to two independent labs for verification. The investigation ultimately confirmed that the animals were coyotes and not wolves. Prior to this incident, the last confirmed sighting of a wolf in Nevada was in 1922 near Elko County, with a lone wolf documented in 2017 near the California line being later determined to be a visitor from the Shasta pack in northern California.
The Nevada Department of Wildlife remains committed to working closely with state and federal agencies to protect Nevada’s ecosystems and wildlife. With the increasing sightings and aftermath of the recent investigation, the department stresses the importance of accurate identification of wildlife species. Moving forward, ongoing monitoring of the area will continue to ensure the accurate identification of any wildlife, including potential wolf sightings. The department’s mission of protecting Nevada’s ecosystems and wildlife, as well as maintaining transparency in all communications with the public, remains a top priority.
