The gray wolves were captured in Oregon where CPW veterinarians and biologists evaluated them to determine if they were fit for relocation to Colorado. Criteria for release included the age, sex, health, and body condition of each animal. 

Each gray wolf was weighed and measured. Staff collected genetic material – tissue and blood samples – before fitting each with a GPS satellite collar for tracking upon release by CPW staff. Then, the wolves were given vaccines and were placed in crates, and flown to Colorado for release back into the wild.

CPW will repeat the process until at least 10 – 15 wolves have been reintroduced in Colorado by mid-March 2024. As outlined in the Colorado Wolf Restoration and Management Plan, CPW hopes to release 30 to 50 wolves over the next 3 – 5 years using wolves captured from nearby northern Rockies states from several different packs by trapping and darting them in the winter.

Gray wolves are listed both state and federally as an endangered species in Colorado by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

Colorado Ranchers and Livestock owners have been against the reintroduction of wolves into the state. According to Ambrock Research – Other states, like New Mexico and Oregon, also have reimbursement programs. But California’s program is the only one in the nation that covers ranches for all three types of reimbursement: direct loss, indirect loss, and the use of non-lethal wolf deterrents. A close eye will be kept to see how Colorado proceeds to compensate livelihoods that may be affected by the introduction of wolves. 

According to the Denver Gazette, when looking at its neighboring state Wyoming, most Wyoming wolves are designated as predators that can be shot on sight without a hunting license or permit except in the northwest part of the state, which has been designated as a trophy hunting area for wolves. The video of the first five wolves released into Colorado is below.