The Mexican gray wolf, one of North America’s most endangered mammals, is now facing a genetic emergency — and federal and state wildlife agencies are failing to act.

Genetic diversity in the wild population has declined for the fourth year in a row, pushing this fragile species toward inbreeding-related deformities, lower reproduction, and eventual extinction.

We, the undersigned, demand that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and New Mexico Department of Game and Fish take immediate, science-based action to save the lobo from collapse.

Specifically, we call for:

• The urgent release of captive-bonded Mexican wolf families into the wild — a proven method to boost genetic health
• An end to the killing and removal of genetically valuable wolves, especially pregnant females and pups
• Removal of political barriers that prevent natural mixing between Mexican and northern gray wolves
• Expansion of the wolves’ natural range, including allowing movement north of Interstate 40.

Captive-bonded wolf families carry 37% more genetic diversity than the current wild population — yet no bonded family group has been released since 2006, despite repeated calls from scientists and conservation organizations.

The piecemeal “cross-fostering” approach — placing pups into wild dens — has failed to reverse genetic decline. Only 24 of 99 cross-fostered pups have survived through their first year.

Meanwhile, agencies have killed or removed at least seven genetically important wolves just this year alone, including a pregnant mother, her pup, and a threatened male now being targeted for removal.

We cannot let politics and mismanagement wipe out this irreplaceable species. The tools to save the lobo exist. What’s missing is the will.

Tell wildlife agencies:

Reintroduce family packs. Stop removals. Allow natural migration.

Save the Mexican gray wolf — before it’s too late.