Was a Wolf Spotted in a Colo. Park?

Colorado wildlife officials have been expecting wolves to migrate in from their northern neighbors. But a recent possible sighting of a wolf in Rocky Mountain National Park is being called credible, according to park biologist Jeff Conner as reported in the Dec. 29 edition of The (Fort Collins) Coloradoan.

The report Conner checked into reported a black canine, which was observed for 30 to 40 seconds. Based on the animal's description, Conner examined tracks left by the animal. After eliminating a coyote or domestic dog, he determined the only possible explanation left is either a wolf or a wolf-hybrid.

Unsubstantiated wolf sightings have been reported in or around the national park, a black canine was videotaped in 2006, and a collared wolf from Wyoming was killed on Interstate 70 in 2004.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife has recently completed its wolf management plan just in case wolves become established in the state and don't just visit from time to time.