Safety note: Dangerous — observe from a safe distance.
The Great Plains Wolf is an extirpated subspecies of gray wolf that once ranged across the bison-rich prairies of the central United States. It was eliminated by the early 20th century through systematic persecution as bison herds were destroyed. Some taxonomists argue that the Great Plains wolf represents the same subspecies as surviving populations reintroduced to Yellowstone.
Habitat
Formerly open prairies, grasslands, and plains of the central U.S.
Diet
Bison, elk, deer, and smaller mammals
How common
Very rare
Not certain it is a Great Plains Wolf? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Great Plains Wolf sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Great Plains Wolf?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states