Mexican wolf captured outside of experimental population area in New Mexico

They returned the wolf to the Gila National Forest where there is an experimental population area.

SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish captured a male Mexican wolf outside of the wolves’ experimental population area in the state.

Game and Fish officials found the wolf Friday just north of Gallina in Rio Arriba County. They returned the wolf to the Gila National Forest.

Gila National Forest is part of the experimental population area for Mexican wolves. The area is mostly south of I-40.

However, Game and Fish officials say the wolf was first spotted outside of the area in July. Then, since late October, he has been making “significant movements” to the north and has shown “no signs of returning” to the area.

Wildlife officials believe he’s moving around to search for a mate. However, if he hadn’t been moved, officials say he could’ve been hurt by another animal or could’ve bred with domestic dogs.