# Gray wolf range expansion in California

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/gray-wolf-range-expansion-in-california
> Updated: 2026-09-08T21:31:12.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Wildlife officials have confirmed the presence of a gray wolf in the Mendocino National Forest, an area where Mendocino, Glenn, and Lake counties converge. The sighting, reported in late August, was verified by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife through photographic evidence and physical tracks.

This discovery is significant as it represents the first confirmed sighting in Lake County since the species began returning to California in 2011. Furthermore, it is the only confirmed sighting west of the Sacramento Valley, suggesting the species is expanding its range into areas with high populations of natural prey like elk. While state authorities currently track at least 50 wolves, the expansion remains a point of contention for local ranchers regarding livestock protection.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-08: Gray wolf sighting confirmed in California's Mendocino National Forest

California wildlife officials confirmed a rare gray wolf sighting in Mendocino National Forest, signaling a potential expansion of the species' range west of the Sacramento Valley.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gray-wolf-sighting-confirmed-in-californias-mendocino-national-forest

### 2026-09-05: Gray wolf sighting in Lake County signals California expansion

A rare gray wolf sighting in Lake County signals a potential expansion of the endangered species west of Interstate 5 in California.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gray-wolf-sighting-in-lake-county-signals-california-expansion

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Cite as: Gray wolf range expansion in California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/gray-wolf-range-expansion-in-california