Colorado’s wolf reintroduction program has experienced a setback. Wildlife officials announced on Tuesday night that they are relocating the Copper Creek wolf pack, a mating pair and at least three wolf pups born this spring, instead of trapping and shooting them after a series of livestock depredations.

We are relieved that that the Copper Creek wolves will live to see another day as opposed to wolves in other states who are trapped and shot because of the greedy meat industry.

The mating pair, who were released Dec. 18, 2023, are being accused of killing at least nine sheep and at least seven cattle, including calves and yearlings, since April 2.

It pays for the industry to complain about wolves.

Under Colorado’s final wolf management plan, ranchers will be compensated for vet bills to treat injured animals, including herding dogs, with up to $15,000 for animal deaths. Introduced with bipartisan support, Senate Bill 255 last year created the Wolf Depredation Compensation Fund and appropriated $525,000 over the next two years to cover livestock losses.

The truth is veganism, and preserving public lands for wildlife, is the best way to reduce any so-called “conflicts” with wolves. Otherwise, the wretched meat and dairy industries continue and indigenous wildlife pays the price.