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This document was developed by the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team and outlines management options for initial release(s) and translocation(s) of Mexican wolves into the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico in 2017. The initial releases and translocations proposed in this document are consistent with:consistent with the 2014 Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf. the 2015 Record of Decision for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf, and the the 2015 Final 10j Rule - Revisions to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf.

This document was developed by the Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team and outlines management options for initial release(s) and translocation(s) of Mexican wolves into the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico in 2017. The initial releases and translocations proposed in this document are consistent with:consistent with the 2014 Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf. the 2015 Record of Decision for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf, and the the 2015 Final 10j Rule - Revisions to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf.

This document outlines the plan for initial release(s) and translocation(s) of Mexican wolves into the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico in 2016. The initial releases and translocations in this document are consistent with the 2014 Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf. the 2015 Record of Decision for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf, and the the 2015 Final 10j Rule - Revisions to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico (80 FR 2488-2512, January 16, 2015). It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2015. As of July 2015, the Species Survival Plan (SSP) captive population includes approximately 243 captive Mexican wolves managed in 54 facilities in the United States and Mexico. This current population size is only slightly above the SSP goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 to ensure the security of the species in captivity and produce surplus animals for reintroduction. Without the SSP, recovery of the Mexican wolf would not be possible.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico (80 FR 2488-2512, January 16, 2015). It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2015. As of July 2015, the Species Survival Plan (SSP) captive population includes approximately 243 captive Mexican wolves managed in 54 facilities in the United States and Mexico. This current population size is only slightly above the SSP goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 to ensure the security of the species in captivity and produce surplus animals for reintroduction. Without the SSP, recovery of the Mexican wolf would not be possible.

This document outlines the plan for initial release(s) and translocation(s) of Mexican wolves into the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico in 2016. The initial releases and translocations in this document are consistent with the 2014 Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf. the 2015 Record of Decision for the Proposed Revision to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf, and the the 2015 Final 10j Rule - Revisions to the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of the Mexican Wolf.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2013. The Species Survival Plan (SSP) captive population has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 248 captive Mexican wolves managed in 55 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2014. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2013. The Species Survival Plan (SSP) captive population has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 248 captive Mexican wolves managed in 55 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2014. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2013. The SSP has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 284 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2013. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction..

Traditionally, conservation genetics has examined neutral-marker (e.g microsatellite) surveys to inform the conservation and management of species. The field expanded together with the expansion of molecular biology, primarily enabled by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing technologies. Recently, advances in genomics and bioinformatics, notably next-generation sequencing (NGS), have demonstrated the ability to further enhance conservation genetic assessments. As a result, conservation genetics is rapidly transforming into a field of conservation genomics. Although complete genome sequencing and analysis is still beyond the reach of many conservation genetic projects, researchers can benefit by producing large amounts of genetic data quickly for their species of interest, or by exploiting existing genomic data for a closely related species. The research presented below serves as an example of these two different approaches. First, I review the current state of conservation genomics, utilizing examples when appropriate to illustrate different techniques and approaches. Next, I describe the development of a tool using NGS that is useful for the rapid genetic analysis of pumas (Puma concolor) called PumaPlex. This work details the methods involved and will be useful for anyone interested in working with a species where little genomic data is available. The last three chapters focus on using an existing genomic tool for the domestic dog to analyze admixture, quantify inbreeding, and identify potential adaptive variation in the endangered Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi). The results demonstrated the Mexican wolf has no significant recent ancestry from domestic dogs, and that several loci may potentially be effective in increasing fitness in the reintroduced population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2013. The SSP has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 284 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2013. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction..

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2012. The SSP has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 258 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2012. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2012. The SSP has steadily expanded throughout the years to approximately 258 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico in 2012. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2008. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2008, there were approximately 340 captive Mexican wolves managed in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2011. In 2011, there were approximately 283 captive Mexican wolves managed in 52 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves with a target population size of 300 ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). This report provides details on both aspects of the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program. The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2008. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2008, there were approximately 340 captive Mexican wolves managed in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. The SSP’s goal of housing a minimum of 240 wolves ensures the security of the species in captivity and produces surplus animals for reintroduction.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2006. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2006, there were approximately 300 captive Mexican wolves managed in 48 facilities in the United States and Mexico. SSP members routinely transfer Mexican wolves to facilitate genetic exchange and maintain the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2006. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2006, there were approximately 300 captive Mexican wolves managed in 48 facilities in the United States and Mexico. SSP members routinely transfer Mexican wolves to facilitate genetic exchange and maintain the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2005. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2005, there were approximately 300 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. Mexican wolves are routinely transferred among zoos and other holding facilities in the SSP program in order to facilitate genetic exchange, thus maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2005. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2005, there were approximately 300 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. Mexican wolves are routinely transferred among zoos and other holding facilities in the SSP program in order to facilitate genetic exchange, thus maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2005. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2005, there were approximately 300 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. Mexican wolves are routinely transferred among zoos and other holding facilities in the SSP program in order to facilitate genetic exchange, thus maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). The reporting period for this progress report is January 1 – December 31, 2005. The SSP has been extremely successful and has steadily expanded throughout the years. In 2005, there were approximately 300 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in 47 facilities in the United States and Mexico. Mexican wolves are routinely transferred among zoos and other holding facilities in the SSP program in order to facilitate genetic exchange, thus maintaining the health and genetic diversity of the captive population.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA).In 2002, there were approximately 242 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). In 2003, there were approximately 250 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) In 2001, there were approximately 194 Mexican wolves being managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA).In 2002, there were approximately 242 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) In 2001, there were approximately 194 Mexican wolves being managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is the smallest, rarest, southernmost occurring, and most genetically distinct subspecies of the North American gray wolf. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is the lead agency responsible for recovery of the Mexican wolf , pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act, or ESA). The Mexican Wolf Recovery Program has two interrelated components: 1) Recovery – includes aspects of the program administered by the Service that pertain to the overall goal of Mexican wolf recovery and delisting from the list of threatened and endangered species, and 2) Reintroduction – includes aspects of the program implemented by the Service and cooperating States, Tribes, other Federal agencies, and counties that pertain to management of the reintroduced Mexican wolf population in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA). In 2003, there were approximately 250 Mexican wolves managed in captivity in over 40 facilities in the United States and Mexico.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico.This plan outlines the interagency management activities needed to reintroduce Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi} in the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA), consisting of the Apache and Gila National Forests of eastern Arizona and western New Mexico. This plan, and subsequent revisions, will be distributed to all personnel participating in the Mexican wolf reintroduction program to assist in coordinating interagency efforts. This plan implements part of the Final Rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) establishing the reintroduced Mexican wolf population as nonessential experimental under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), published at 63 Federal Register pp. 1763-1772 (Jan. 12, 1998), codified at 30 CFR section 17.84(k). The primary goal of the reintroduction effort is to restore a self-sustaining population of Mexican wolves in the BRWRA. The objective is to re-establish approximately 100 wild wolves distributed over approximately 5,000 square miles, consistent with the 1982 Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. This objective is projected to take about nine years to achieve, i.e., by about 2007. It is the cooperators’ intent to manage wolves in the BRWRA in a manner that will minimize negative impacts, and maximize positive impacts, on the lifestyles and economy of local residents.

The Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) is listed as endangered under the Act in the southwestern United States and Mexico.This plan outlines the interagency management activities needed to reintroduce Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi} in the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area (BRWRA), consisting of the Apache and Gila National Forests of eastern Arizona and western New Mexico. This plan, and subsequent revisions, will be distributed to all personnel participating in the Mexican wolf reintroduction program to assist in coordinating interagency efforts. This plan implements part of the Final Rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) establishing the reintroduced Mexican wolf population as nonessential experimental under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), published at 63 Federal Register pp. 1763-1772 (Jan. 12, 1998), codified at 30 CFR section 17.84(k). The primary goal of the reintroduction effort is to restore a self-sustaining population of Mexican wolves in the BRWRA. The objective is to re-establish approximately 100 wild wolves distributed over approximately 5,000 square miles, consistent with the 1982 Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. This objective is projected to take about nine years to achieve, i.e., by about 2007. It is the cooperators’ intent to manage wolves in the BRWRA in a manner that will minimize negative impacts, and maximize positive impacts, on the lifestyles and economy of local residents.

This is the completed Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. It has been approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Dirección General de la Fauna Silvestre. It does not necessarily represent official positions or approvals of cooperating agencies nor does it necessarily represent the views of all recovery team members who played the key role in preparing this plan. This plan is subject to modification as dictated by new findings and changes in species status and completion of tasks described in the plan. Goals and objectives will be attained and funds expended contingent upon appropriations, priorities, and other budgetary constraints. The Mexican gray wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) has been described as smallest in size of the American subspecies of Canis lupis. Fewer than 50 specimens may remain in the wild plus a handful in captivity. These southern subspecies are of special scientific interest because of possible adaptations, however subtle, to the environmenta1 and ecological conditions at the extreme southern limits of the species' range. Now, only baileyi remains as a living specimen. Many persons today feel that there are many other reasons, besides scientific knowledge, to prevent extinction of life forms, even large predators, including continuation of maximum genetic diversity and the intrinsic right of all forms to exist.

This is the completed Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. It has been approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Dirección General de la Fauna Silvestre. It does not necessarily represent official positions or approvals of cooperating agencies nor does it necessarily represent the views of all recovery team members who played the key role in preparing this plan. This plan is subject to modification as dictated by new findings and changes in species status and completion of tasks described in the plan. Goals and objectives will be attained and funds expended contingent upon appropriations, priorities, and other budgetary constraints. The Mexican gray wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) has been described as smallest in size of the American subspecies of Canis lupis. Fewer than 50 specimens may remain in the wild plus a handful in captivity. These southern subspecies are of special scientific interest because of possible adaptations, however subtle, to the environmenta1 and ecological conditions at the extreme southern limits of the species' range. Now, only baileyi remains as a living specimen. Many persons today feel that there are many other reasons, besides scientific knowledge, to prevent extinction of life forms, even large predators, including continuation of maximum genetic diversity and the intrinsic right of all forms to exist.