COLORADO – Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service have completed their joint investigation into the death of female gray wolf 2504 in northwest Colorado. Officials determined that the wolf died from an accidental gunshot wound after being mistaken for a coyote by a licensed hunter.
The shooting occurred on January 16th, 2026. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the hunter promptly reported the incident to wildlife officials and cooperated with law enforcement throughout the investigation. The investigation found no evidence that the hunter intentionally targeted the protected wolf.
Hunter Cited by Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Colorado Parks and Wildlife cited the hunter for violating agency regulations but will not pursue additional criminal charges in connection with the shooting. CPW Chief of Law Enforcement and Assistant Director of Field Services Ty Petersburg said the circumstances surrounding the incident were important to the agency’s decision.
Unlawful killing of a protected species can result in serious criminal penalties, but this hunter made the ethical decision to immediately report the shooting and accept responsibility for the accidental killing. Wolves can resemble coyotes at a distance, making proper identification especially important before a hunter pulls the trigger.
Gray Wolves Remain Protected in Colorado
Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminded the public that gray wolves are protected under both state and federal law. The species remains listed as endangered, meaning members of the public cannot legally kill wolves in Colorado.
Wolf recovery has brought the species back to parts of the state after decades of absence. As wolves establish themselves across Colorado, wildlife officials have emphasized the importance of learning how to distinguish wolves from coyotes and other wildlife.
The death of wolf 2504 underscores the potential consequences of mistaken identification during hunting season. CPW’s investigation is now complete, with the hunter cited for the regulatory violation and no further charges planned.