In July 2025, gray wolf 2304—one of the wolves translocated from Oregon to Colorado as part of Colorado’s historic wolf restoration program—was found dead in Wyoming. Her death is more than just a tragic loss; it’s a stark reminder of the fragile state of wolf recovery in the American West.

Gray wolves do not recognize state borders. They roam vast distances in search of food, mates, and new territory. But when these wolves cross from one state to another, they can lose the protections that were meant to keep them safe. That’s exactly what may have happened to wolf 2304. Because of differences in state laws and a lack of consistent federal oversight, wolves that are legally reintroduced in one state may be unprotected—or even hunted—just across the border.

We’re calling on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to restore and strengthen Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves, especially those reintroduced by states like Colorado. These protections must apply across state lines to ensure that no wolf is sentenced to death just for doing what wolves naturally do—travel.

Wolf 2304 was part of a hopeful effort to bring balance back to Colorado’s ecosystems. Her death is not just the loss of one animal—it’s a setback for an entire movement to restore biodiversity, protect native species, and honor our shared responsibility to coexist with wildlife.

The federal government has both the authority and the duty to protect imperiled species that cross jurisdictional boundaries. It’s time for national leadership that reflects the values of conservation, science, and cooperation—not political patchwork that leaves wolves vulnerable.

Sign this petition if you believe gray wolves deserve protection wherever they roam. Let’s make sure 2304’s death leads to stronger, smarter policies that help these iconic animals not just survive—but thrive.