Mollie's Pack Survived Wyoming Wolf Hunting Season
The historic wolf pack remained intact despite spending time in an active hunt zone near Cody.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Hunting
Live Poll
Should states prioritize the protection of endangered park-based animal packs over regional hunting allowances?
Mollie's Pack, the final surviving group from the 1995-1996 Yellowstone wolf reintroduction, successfully navigated the latest hunting season without losing any members. The pack had relocated from its longtime home in Pelican Valley to a permitted hunting area.
Why it matters
As the only original pack remaining from the Yellowstone reintroduction program, Mollie's Pack holds significant historical value for wildlife conservation efforts. Their movement into areas where hunting is permitted highlights the ongoing intersection between protected wildlife and state-managed hunting regulations.
The wolf hunting season in Wyoming areas one and two concluded after reaching a mortality limit of 4 wolves. The reintroduction of these predators to the region 30 years ago has driven ecological shifts, including a 1500% comeback of willow plants.
The players
Mollie's Pack
This is the last remaining wolf pack that originated from the 1995-96 reintroduction efforts in Yellowstone National Park.
The details
The pack moved out of its traditional territory in Pelican Valley and spent the latter part of 2025 and the first half of 2026 within Wyoming wolf hunt area one. Although they frequented a zone near Cody where hunting is legal, all members survived the season.
Timeline
1995-1996: The Yellowstone wolf reintroduction occurred.
Late 2025 - Mid 2026: Mollie's Pack occupied Wyoming hunt area one.
September 2026: Wyoming closed wolf hunt areas one and two.
Roadmap
The survival of Mollie's Pack highlights the success of the 30-year Yellowstone wolf reintroduction program. This endurance marks a significant chapter in predator management as these animals navigate modern state hunting boundaries.
Residents and hunters in the area near Cody should note that wolf hunt areas one and two are now closed to further harvesting. This ensures that the population limit is maintained while allowing for continued monitoring of pack movements.
The takeaway
Wildlife enthusiasts should remember that animals often traverse boundaries beyond protected park borders, making local awareness essential. The survival of this historic pack underscores the complex balance between state management and conservation goals.
Further reading
For more information on wildlife management, visit our Hunting section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Cool Down.
Live Poll
Should states prioritize the protection of endangered park-based animal packs over regional hunting allowances?
