Animal welfare and conservation organizations file lawsuit to have gray wolves listed as endangered species

Animal welfare and conservation groups are taking legal action against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in an effort to have gray wolves reinstated on the Endangered Species List. This move comes as concerns grow over the management of predatory animals in states like Wyoming, where recent incidents have sparked outrage and calls for stricter protections.

The lawsuit, filed by organizations such as Animal Wellness Action, the Center for a Humane Economy, and Project Coyote, alleges that states like Wyoming have relaxed regulations on the killing of wolves, leading to a decline in their populations. These groups argue that without federal protections, gray wolves are at risk of facing further harm and potential extinction.

One of the incidents that prompted this legal action was a case of alleged wolf torture in Sublette County, Wyoming, which gained international attention and raised questions about the treatment of wildlife in the state. In response to this incident, the Wyoming Legislature established a Treatment of Predators Working Group to address concerns surrounding the management of predatory animals.

Rep. Liz Storer, who heads the working group, has proposed legislation that would require injured or disabled animals to be euthanized promptly to prevent further suffering. This proposed law aims to prevent incidents like the one in Sublette County and hold individuals accountable for their actions towards wildlife.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service now has a limited timeframe to respond to the lawsuit filed by animal welfare and conservation groups. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the protection of gray wolves and other endangered species in the United States.

It is important to note that Liz Storer, who is involved in the legislative efforts to protect predatory animals in Wyoming, also serves as the president and CEO of the George B. Storer Foundation, which supports initiatives related to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

Overall, the lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the management of endangered species and the need for stronger protections to ensure the survival of wildlife populations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will be closely watched by conservationists, policymakers, and advocates for animal welfare.