Gosar Introduces Bill Removing Mexican Wolf from Endangered Species List

Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) has introduced legislation to take the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) off the Endangered Species List.

"Since being reintroduced to the wild in Arizona, Mexican wolves have preyed on cattle, livestock, and even family pets, causing significant financial losses and economic hardship on family-run ranches," said Rep. Gosar in his press release, adding, "The Mexican wolf has lingered on the Endangered Species list for nearly 40 years. During that time, there have been numerous accounts of livestock killings and even declines in some big game herds since these wolves were first listed."

Additionally, Rep. Gosar pointed out that 90% of the animal's habitat is in Mexico, but "the USFWS considers recovery within the borders of Mexico in its management goals. American ranchers are being punished for Mexico's failure to manage its own animal populations effectively."

However, environmental groups have fought to keep the Mexican wolf on the list, even as its wild population has exceeded the original federal recovery goals and thus is safe from extinction.

Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ), the bill's cosponsor, said, "The Mexican wolf is destroying the livelihood of western ranchers by slaughtering their cattle. Because of its status as an endangered species–a falsehood perpetuated by the Biden Administration and environmental groups–ranchers cannot protect their herds from these predators."

"I'm thankful that Rep. Gosar is leading the effort to allow Arizona ranchers to protect their cattle without fear of repercussions from the federal government," Rep. Biggs continued, adding, "Cattle are a vital part of Arizona's economy, and Congress must ensure that ranchers are able to protect their herds from dangerous predators."

State Representative Gail Griffin (R-19) previously called attention to the threat of the Mexican wolf at the beginning of June in an op-ed for the Eastern Arizona Courier, saying, "To protect our communities and our way of life, we must stand up against this unfounded and unjust system."