“In 2010, wolf depredation to livestock occurred on 47 farms. Total livestock depredation in 2010 included: 63 cattle killed (47 calves), 5 cattle injured, 6 sheep killed (4 lambs), 1 goat injured, and 6 farm deer killed. A total of 25 to 27 packs and 2 to 4 loners/dispersers were involved in depredation on livestock. The enclosed map shows locations of all depredations on livestock (injured or killed), and verified threats or harassment of livestock. For the purpose of depredation management, game farm deer are considered livestock. Non-livestock depredation include attacks on pets, and human safety situations with wolves.”
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/mammals/wolf/wolf_map.htm#map
I recall that the number of pets killed was considerably more than zero, but I cannot remember how many the DNR estimated.
While farmers have a vested interest in reporting wolf depredations, the DNR has a vested interest in minimizing them.
Certainly, deer cause damage as well, and farmers can be reimbursed for some deer damage.
Wolves and deer are both resources that need to be managed. Left to themselves, they cannot be depended on to stay at optimum levels for human purposes.
“Good news. Wolves are already causing considerable damage in northern Wisconsin.”..
Wolves have been doing damage for a long time.
Interestingly, and not too long ago, the feds killed a pack of wolves (nine in all but two were left to live) because the wolves lost their fear of humans. That was in the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge (Central Wisconsin, Juneau County). The two they left were more than likely the alpha male and female........Hence the start of another pack to replace the ones they killed. The problem can start all over again........