White Alpha Yellowstone Wolf Put Down

A famous Yellowstone wolf has died.

The white female who ran the Canyon Pack, one of only three known white wolves in the park, was 12 years old when she died from severe injuries – according to Park officials, that’s twice the age of an average wolf in Yellowstone.

She was discovered April 11 by hikers near Gardiner, Montana. Park staff investigated the situation and concluded the wolf was in shock and dying from the injuries, which did not have a clear cause. P.J. White, Chief of the Wildlife and Aquatic Resources Branch, said the staff on scene agreed the animal could not be saved because her injuries were so severe. He added that an investigation into the cause of the injuries has begun.

The wolf and her mate, who was known to biologists as 712M, had a broad range that extended from Hayden Valley to the Firehole River area to the northern portion of the park. According to the website County10.com, the two had at least eight litters together. Aside from her long life and dedication to her mate, she was unusual in that she was never captured and collared, and was never given a name.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Yellowstone National Park Tip Line at 307-344-2132.