Wolf-like animal a mystery to Montana wildlife officials
Associated Press
More from Associated Press
Published:
May 25, 2018
Updated:
May 25, 2018 5:38 PM EDT
This undated photo provided by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks on Friday, May 25, 2018, shows a wolf-like animal that was shot on May 16, 2018, after it was spotted in a private pasture with livestock near Denton, Mont. It was originally thought to be a wolf, but doubts arose since the front paw appeared too short, the front claws too long, the canine teeth too short, and ears too tall in proportion to the skull. (Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
DENTON, Mont. — A central Montana rancher shot a wolf-like animal after it was spotted in a pasture with livestock, but a closer look prompted state wildlife officials to take DNA samples to determine what type of animal it was.
Fish, Wildlife and Parks regional spokesman Bruce Auchly said the animal’s front claws and canine teeth are too short and its ears are too tall in proportion to its skull for it to be a purebred wolf.
The animal was shot on May 16 near the town of Denton.
(Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
Wolf management specialist Ty Smucker says the animal could be a wolf-dog hybrid. The DNA tests haven’t been returned.
Warden Zach Norris says the rancher was within his rights to kill the animal because it was seen near livestock, domestic dogs and children.
(Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
Wolf-like animal a mystery to Montana wildlife officials | Toronto Sun
Associated Press
More from Associated Press
Published:
May 25, 2018
Updated:
May 25, 2018 5:38 PM EDT
This undated photo provided by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks on Friday, May 25, 2018, shows a wolf-like animal that was shot on May 16, 2018, after it was spotted in a private pasture with livestock near Denton, Mont. It was originally thought to be a wolf, but doubts arose since the front paw appeared too short, the front claws too long, the canine teeth too short, and ears too tall in proportion to the skull. (Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
DENTON, Mont. — A central Montana rancher shot a wolf-like animal after it was spotted in a pasture with livestock, but a closer look prompted state wildlife officials to take DNA samples to determine what type of animal it was.
Fish, Wildlife and Parks regional spokesman Bruce Auchly said the animal’s front claws and canine teeth are too short and its ears are too tall in proportion to its skull for it to be a purebred wolf.
The animal was shot on May 16 near the town of Denton.
(Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
Wolf management specialist Ty Smucker says the animal could be a wolf-dog hybrid. The DNA tests haven’t been returned.
Warden Zach Norris says the rancher was within his rights to kill the animal because it was seen near livestock, domestic dogs and children.
(Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via AP)
Wolf-like animal a mystery to Montana wildlife officials | Toronto Sun
