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Fierce Loyalty Of Wyoming’s Wolf Packs Make It Easier To Track Them

Wyoming's 350 wolves are scattered among 30 packs, raising the question of how those wolves, packs and pack membership are tracked. It's quite simple. They don't veer outside their packs. They live and die with the packs they were born into.

Mark HeinzNovember 23, 2024

A station with bags for people to pick up and pack out their poo while hiking on Mount Elbert in Colorado, the second tallest peak in the Lower 48.

No More Free-Range Pooping: Human-Poop Bags At Hiking Trailheads Are A Thing Now

“Sustainable pooping” has become an outdoors recreation catchphrase, with people expected to pack their own human waste out in plastic bags. Kiosks with these human-poop bags are popping up along popular hiking trails, like Mount Elbert in Colorado.

Mark HeinzNovember 22, 2024

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If Wyoming Grizzlies Make It To Utah, They’ll Probably Get Sent Back

While it’s almost certain that Wyoming grizzlies will eventually migrate into Utah, they won’t be welcome to stay there. Unlike Wyoming, Utah does not have a sustainable habitat for grizzly bears.

Mark HeinzNovember 22, 2024

One of 10 wolves reintroduced to northern Colorado in December 2023.

After Colorado Wolf Found With Bullet Wound, Group Puts Up $50K In Rewards

After a bullet wound was found in a wolf carcass in Colorado, a conservation group has set up a $50,000 reward fund for tips about illegal wolf killings.

Mark HeinzNovember 20, 2024

Montana wildlife agents sometimes use drones to chase grizzly bears away from farms and ranches on the high plains.

One Way To Scare Grizzlies Away: Yell At Them Over Drone Speakers

Montana wildlife officials have been yelling at prairie grizzlies through the speakers on drones to scare the bears away from people. But that doesn’t always work, like the Colorado black bear who didn’t budge when blasted with heavy metal music.

Mark HeinzNovember 19, 2024

Coyotes and badgers will team up to hunt prairie dogs and ground squirrels. Between the coyotes’ agility and the badgers’ digging power, the rodents don’t stand a chance.

Wyoming Coyotes And Badgers Will Team Up To Hunt Prairie Dogs

Coyotes and badgers in Wyoming will team up to hunt prairie dogs. Badgers dig into the rodents’ dens, while the coyotes wait at the exit to snatch any varmints trying to escape.

Mark HeinzNovember 18, 2024

A wildland firefighter walks along the edge of the Dixie Fire in northern California in 2021. This firefighter’s job is to help monitor the ongoing backfiring operation and to watch for any embers falling onto the wrong side of the control line.

Wyoming Hotshot’s Photographs Give Rare Behind-The-Scenes Look At Wildfires

Wyoming Hotshot Capt. Kyle Miller’s photographs are on display at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody in a new exhibition. His stunning images give a rare behind-the-scenes look at wildfires and the people who fight them.

Amber SteinmetzNovember 17, 2024

What's being called a 20-year storm left much of Colorado under deep snow this past week, which crusted over and forced herds of antelope onto eastern Colorado roads, where about 150 were killed, including 53 at once.

Winter Storm Drives 150 Antelope To Their Deaths, Including 53 From One Truck Accident

150 antelope were killed earlier this week when a winter storm blasted eastern Colorado with snow and sent the animals onto the highways. That includes 53 antelope which were plowed down in a single accident.

Mark HeinzNovember 16, 2024

A view along Highway 14 shows large patches of black where the Elk Fire burned on the eastern Bighorn Mountains in northern Wyoming.

After 7 Weeks And 100,000 Acres Burned, Elk Fire Is 100% Contained

After more than seven weeks, the Elk Fire is officially 100% contained. The late-season wildfire scorched nearly 100,000 acres in the Bighorn Mountains and came close to burning the rural towns of Dayton and Parkman.

Greg JohnsonNovember 15, 2024

The rugged and remote Green Mountain area in the Laramie Range in Albany County is prized for its elk and bighorn sheep hunting. The proposed Britania Land Exchange would trade rugged Forest Service Land in Albany for two parchels farther to the north.

Fight Over Prime Wyoming Hunting Land Exchange Headed To Federal Court

A legal fight is brewing over a U.S. Forest Service land exchange that would take a "hunter's paradise" parcel in Wyoming's Laramie Range out of public use. Opponents of the swap filed a court petition to stop it this week and are threatening a lawsuit.

Mark HeinzNovember 14, 2024

If a deer jumps out in front of your vehicle on the road, Colorado officials say it could be best to just hit it.

Colorado Says If You See A Deer In The Road, Hit It. Don’t Try To “Save Bambi”

If a deer jumps out in front of your vehicle on the road, Colorado officials say it could be best to just hit it. Swerving to try and “save Bambi” could lead to even more tragic results.

Mark HeinzNovember 14, 2024

An elk hunt near Sybille Canyon in southeast Wyoming became a mountain lion hunt for Matt Rivord of Laramie. He said more and more mountain lions have been showing up there.

Having A Mountain Lion Tag, Just In Case, Pays Off For Wyoming Elk Hunting Guide

Hunters keeping just-in-case mountain lion tags in their pocket when they’re out after elk and deer is increasingly common. It paid off for a Wyoming elk hunting guide.

Mark HeinzNovember 13, 2024

Wildlife biologist Cat Wood studied and photographed wolverines in Alaska, like in this file photo. She says a video taken Tuesday morning near Yellowstone National Park, though blurry, shows a wolverine.

Blurry Video Near Yellowstone May Be Extremely Rare Wolverine Sighting

A blurry video taken early Tuesday shows a creature bounding across a highway near Yellowstone National Park. Though the footage is blurry, the man who took it says it was a wolverine, and a wildlife biologist agrees.

Mark HeinzNovember 12, 2024

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Trump’s Win Could Tip The Scales In Favor Of Delisting Wyoming’s Grizzlies

With the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, it’s possible that federal protections could be removed for Wyoming’s grizzly bears.

Mark HeinzNovember 12, 2024

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Plunging Temps Get Wyoming Big Game Moving, Increase Odds For Hunters

After a scorching start to hunting season in September and October, colder temperatures and snow in November are helping hunters out.

Mark HeinzNovember 11, 2024

Conditions were snowy and deep in Leo Wolfson’s first day of the year on skis in the backcountry.

Back On Skis And It's Not Even Thanksgiving

The snowstorms that hit the Rocky Mountains last week produced some rare early November skiing -- if you are willing to work for it. Cowboy State Daily’s Leo Wolfson went backcountry skiing in northern Colorado on Saturday and said the conditions were ideal.

Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2024

Many modern pistol designs feature a safety lever built into the trigger. That mitigates the risk of accidental firing, if the pistol is being carried with a round in the firing chamber.

Wyoming Outdoorsmen Say In Grizzly Country, Have A Round Chambered In Your Handgun

When a grizzly is charging and milliseconds count, it’s best to have a round already chambered in a defensive handgun, Wyoming outdoorsmen told Cowboy State Daily. A hunter who shot and killed charging grizzly last month says it saved his life.

Mark HeinzNovember 10, 2024

It’s been nearly 30 years since John Talbott, inset, then Wyoming Game and Fish director, got caught fishing without a license and resigned.

That Time Wyoming’s Game And Fish Director Was Caught Fishing Without A License

It’s been nearly 30 years since John Talbott, then Wyoming Game and Fish director, got caught fishing without a license and resigned. The incident still lives on in Wyoming author C.J. Box’s “Joe Pickett” novels.

Mark HeinzNovember 09, 2024

Sydnee Chapman poses for a photo outside her camper van in Joshua Tree National Park, California. Chapman has traveled through eight states since moving into the van earlier this summer.

Starting My Van Life Journey In Wyoming: I Was Convinced I Would Be Killed Or Kidnapped

Sydnee Chapman writes, “I was convinced I would be killed or kidnapped on my first night sleeping in my recently bought campervan. The wind gusts at the rest stop somewhere between Laramie and Evanston were a far cry from the glorious lifestyles you see under #vanlife on social media."

Sydnee ChapmanNovember 09, 2024

Jordan Thorn reached Katahdin, the end of the Appalachian Trail, on Oct. 6. Located in Main it was the end of the five-month journey that began in Georgia.

Georgia To Maine In 5 Months: Gillette Man Hikes 2,198-Mile Appalachian Trail

About 3,000 people attempt the entire distance of the 2,198-mile Appalachian Trail every year. Only 1 in 4 make it. It took Gillette native Jordan Thorn five months to complete it, hitting the end of the trail on October 6 -- but was nearly derailed by illness 100 miles from the end.

Amber SteinmetzNovember 09, 2024

About a month before it was close, Wyoming photographer Tim Doolan hiked to the deck of the Black Mountain Lookout, at 9,400 feet elevation one of the highest points in the Bighorn Range. He captured stunning drone video and photos of the panoramic view. The lookout itself, however, has been shuttered for decades, and now the deck also is closed for repairs.

Black Mountain Lookout: The Best View In The Bighorns Has Seen Better Days

The 84-year-old Black Mountain Fire Lookout sits at an elevation of 9,400 feet and offers a spectacular panoramic view of Wyoming’s northern Bighorns. Although it's been boarded up for decades, the Forest Service is hoping it can be fixed and opened to the public.

Andrew RossiNovember 09, 2024

One of 10 wolves reintroduced to northern Colorado in December 2023.

Are Coloradans Shooting At Wolves? Bullet Wound Sparks Speculation

A Colorado wolf found dead was killed by another wolf, but also had an old bullet wound, state officials reported this week. It’s sparked speculation that Coloradans have started taking potshots at wolves.

Mark HeinzNovember 09, 2024

Garrett Kalkowski and his father, Vince, along with their family and friends have hunted elk for years in the Meeteetse area. Garrett said the grizzly population there has been steadily increasing, and that he had to shoot and kill a grizzly on Oct. 3 to save him and his father from being mauled.

Wyoming Hunter Says 10 mm Pistol Saved Him And Dad From Grizzly Mauling

A Cody, Wyoming, hunter related Thursday how having a round chambered in his 10 mm pistol saved him and his dad from being mauled by a grizzly. The bear was just a few yards away when he shot it in self-defense.

Mark HeinzNovember 07, 2024

Now that the Pack Trail Fire is 95% confined, crews are busy doing controlled burns in Bridger-Teton National Forest in northwest Wyoming.

With Huge Late-Season Wildfires Under Control, Fire Crews Now Starting Fires

With two huge late-season wildfires under control, U.S. Forest Service crews are now busy catching up on the controlled burns they start on purpose.

Greg JohnsonNovember 07, 2024

A hunting accident 11 years ago left Idaho resident Tj Cartwright completely blind. But that didn’t stop him from taking up hunting again. He recently came to Wyoming and shot this whitetail buck in Park County.

Blind Hunter Shoots Wyoming Buck, Hopes To Inspire Others

Tj Cartwright was accidently shot in the face with a hunting arrow 11 years ago, leaving him completely blind. But he didn’t stop hunting, and shot a Wyoming buck this season.

Mark HeinzNovember 05, 2024

A brown bear turns and attacks a ranger in Armenia after being released.

Wyoming Experts Say Safety Rules Ignored In Bear Release That Ended In Attack

Armenian wildlife rangers ignored safety rules and did practically everything wrong in a viral video of a bear release gone wrong. Wyoming grizzly experts say the rangers are lucky nobody was killed when the brown bear turned and attacked.

Mark HeinzNovember 05, 2024

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Good Business: National Outdoor Apparel Company Sends Handwritten Note About Hunting

Why would a Seattle couple who own a popular outdoor clothing company take the time to send handwritten notes to customers? It's good business. When a Wyoming customer purchased a couple shirts, they mentioned how they eloped on a hunting trip in Baggs, Wyoming.

Mark HeinzNovember 04, 2024

Teri Smith of Sheridan has enjoyed hunting Wyoming big game for years. She looks forward to mentoring other hunters, as the first Wyoming representative for the 10 Can Inc. Christian Adventure Network.

Despite Chronic Pain, Sheridan Woman Continues To Mentor Hunters

Sheridan resident Teri Smith was nearly killed in a head-on collision in 2001 and has suffered chronic pain since. That hasn’t stopped her from hunting and mentoring others.

Mark HeinzNovember 03, 2024

The water in a thermal pool bubbles in Yellowstone National Park, which sits atop a supervolcano.

Why A Far-Fetched NASA Idea To Cool Yellowstone’s Supervolcano Would Never Work

NASA scientists concocted an idea a decade ago to save the world from a civilization-ending eruption of the supervolcano underneath Yellowstone National Park. Although volcanologists shot it down, scientists are still talking about it.

Andrew RossiNovember 03, 2024

Members of the Elk Fire Burned Area Emergency Response Team assess the damage left by the wildfire and what will need to be done to repair or mitigate damages or other threats, like potential for invasive weeds, mudslides and debris flows.

Scientists Map Out How Badly Elk Fire Damaged The 98,000 Acres It Ravaged

With the Elk Fire 88% contained and growing cooler, the problems are just beginning for the 98,000 acres of land ravaged by the wildfire. Scientists are now mapping out how badly the fire damaged the land and how to repair it.

Renée JeanNovember 03, 2024

Abyss Pool in the West Thumb Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park is getting hotter and changing colors, which scientists say may indicate it's building up to violently erupt. Then again, it may not.

Yellowstone’s Abyss Pool Is Getting Hotter, Changing Colors And Could Explode

Abyss Pool in the West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park is getting hotter and changing colors. Scientists say the pool, where a human foot was found floating two years ago, could erupt violently in the near future.

Andrew RossiNovember 03, 2024

Lynnette Turner-Parry sings "What A Wonderful World" during a candlelight vigil for Grizzly 399 on Nov. 2, 2024, in Jackson, Wyoming.

Mourners From Across Country Attend Candlelight Vigil For Grizzly 399 In Jackson

Mourners gathered in Jackson's Public Square on Saturday night to attend a candlelight vigil for Grizzly 399. “I’ve cried every night since she died,” said a woman who traveled from Oregon.

Andrew RossiNovember 03, 2024

A search is on for James Johnson of Encampment, Wyoming, who hasn't been heard from since leaving to go hunting in the Medicine Bow National Forest on Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 30, 2024. His truck has been found, but not Johnson.

When Encampment Hunter James Johnson Got Lost, He Kept His Head & Built A Fire

James Johnson is an avid hunter and it's not like him to get lost. But when he did last Wednesday, he had two choices: keep searching to find his truck or use the fleeting sunlight to build a shelter and fire. He chose the latter and was found the next day.

Clair McFarlandNovember 02, 2024

Work progresses on a massive $118 million project to replace the Yellowstone River Bridge in the national park. The new bridge will be 180 feet tall and 1,285 feet long.

Yellowstone's New 180-Foot-Tall, 1,285-Foot-Long Bridge Set To Open In 2025

The $118 million project to replace the Yellowstone River Bridge requires "an orchestra of coordination." But the new 180-foot-tall, 1,285-foot-long bridge could be open to traffic by the end of 2025.

Andrew RossiNovember 02, 2024

Grizzly 399 with three of her four cubs in this undated photo.

Grizzly 399 Cremated, Ashes Scattered In Pilgrim Creek Area Of Grand Teton Park

Final closure to the story of Grizzly 399 came Friday when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced she had been cremated. The ashes of the world’s most famous bear were scatted in the Pilgrim Creek area of Grand Teton National Park.

Mark HeinzNovember 01, 2024

Wyoming mule deer.

Oregon Has Close Call With Chronic Wasting Disease From Infected Wyoming Deer

Oregon had a close call with chronic wasting disease when hunters from that state brought home two infected Wyoming deer carcasses.

Mark HeinzOctober 31, 2024

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Speed Limit Unlikely To Change Because Of Grizzly 399's Death

The death of Wyoming’s beloved Grizzly 399 has some calling for lower speed limits where the accident happened. But Wyoming transportation officials say one bear death — even Grizzly 399 — isn’t likely to prompt lowering the speed limit.

Mark HeinzOctober 30, 2024

The entrance to the 15-acre corn maze at Gallagher Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Clark, Wyoming.

Electric Fence To Keep Grizzlies Out Installed At Popular Wyoming Corn Maze

As grizzly bears expand their range, corn fields are too much for some hungry bears to resist. That’s why a popular corn maze near Clark, Wyoming, is surrounded by a five-strand electric fence.

Mark HeinzOctober 28, 2024

Grizzly 104 predated Grizzly 399 as Wyoming’s most famous bear, until she was struck and killed by a vehicle in 2001. A taxidermy mount of her is on display at the Draper Natural History Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody.

Will Grizzly 399 Be Stuffed And Displayed Like Grizzly 104?

Before the reign of Grizzly 399, Grizzly 104 was Wyoming’s most famous bear, and there was worldwide heartbreak when she was struck and killed by a vehicle in 2001. She’s been stuffed and is on display at a Cody museum.

Mark HeinzOctober 28, 2024

In many areas of the Pack Trail and Elk fires, crews are cleaning up damage and mitigation done to fight the fires.

More Snow Coming As Large Wyoming Wildfires Close In On Containment

Another blast of snow is expected to begin Monday night as firefighters report they’re closing in on confinement of the Elk and Pack Trail fires. The Elk Fire is 82% contained and Pack Trail 78% confined.

Greg JohnsonOctober 28, 2024

Bison in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone To Remove 1,375 Bison, But Some Say It Should Be More, Not Less

Yellowstone will remove 1,375 bison through its Interagency Bison Management Plan. It's part of an ongoing effort to limit bison numbers that some say is driven by political pressure, and that the park should have more bison, not less.

Andrew RossiOctober 27, 2024

With a huge wildfire season in Wyoming this year, one question people ask is why isn't cloud seeding used to induce rain and snow to fall on the fires. The simple answer is you have to have clouds to do that.

Why Couldn't Wyoming Wildfires Be Put Out By Cloud Seeding?

With almost a million acres of land burned up in Wyoming this year by wildfire, why not use cloud seeding to help? For cloud seeding to even have a chance, a cloud is needed -- something Wyoming hasn't had much of lately.

Renée JeanOctober 27, 2024

Casey Rislov of Casper (left) and Ron Hayes of Douglas hold copies of their book "Let Me Tell You About My Mom."

Douglas Photographer, Casper Author Create Wildlife Book For Kids

A lifelong passion for the Cowboy State and its wildlife has prompted a Douglas photographer and a Casper children's author to create a wildlife book for kids. It features animal moms and their young to inspire a curiosity about the wild side of Wyoming.

Amber SteinmetzOctober 26, 2024

Crews are also in the Elk Fire burn area assessing and repairing damage made during efforts to fight and contain the fire.

With Elk Fire 73% Contained, Locals Try To Reclaim “Some Level Of Normal”

Progress fighting the Elk Fire on the eastern Wyoming Bighorns is accelerating, going from 58% percent contained Friday to 73% Saturday. That’s allowing locals to try and reclaim “some level of normal.”

Greg JohnsonOctober 26, 2024

Could Grizzly 399 be cremated, if that's what's determined to be done with her body? Absolutely, says Paul Davis, owner of Yellowstone Pet Cremations in Powell, Wyoming. He's cremated animals of all sizes, including horses. Above is 399 and a crematorium apparatus at Davis' operation.

Grizzly 399 Could Be Cremated; Cody Crematorium Explains How It's Done

Paul Davis, owner of Yellowstone Pet Cremations in Powell, said he has the capacity to cremate Grizzly 399 — if that’s what’s decided to be done. His business has worked with the Fish & Wildlife Service to dispose of the remains of other protected species.

Andrew RossiOctober 25, 2024

Grizzly 399 and her cub, Spirit. Photo is owned by Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven and may not be reproduced

Driver Who Killed Grizzly 399 Did Nothing Wrong, Sheriff’s Office Says

Contrary to public outcry from some to prosecute the driver who hit and killed Grizzly 399, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office says that’s not likely to happen. Its investigation shows the driver wasn’t speeding and did nothing wrong.

Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2024

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Fish And Wildlife Service Has Grizzly 399’s Body, Now Determining What To Do With It

The Fish and Wildlife Service on Thursday said it has possession of Grizzly 399’s body and is in the "early stages of determining the next steps.” Fans of the fallen grizzly told Cowboy State Daily they want some kind of memorial for the bear.

Andrew RossiOctober 24, 2024

Grizzly 399 with three of her cubs in Grand Teton National Park.

How Grizzly 399 Became The Most Popular Bear In The World

Grizzly 399’s rise to worldwide fame was achieved when she raised triplets near humans just as social media was taking-off. It also involved a decision in 2007 to let her live after she bit a Lander schoolteacher while protecting her cubs.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 24, 2024

Spirit is the sole cub born to Grizzly 399 in 2023.

Spirit, Grizzly 399’s Huge Cub, Has “High Chances” Of Survival Without Mom

Wildlife biologists say Grizzly 399's yearling cub, Spirit, has a "high chance of survival" even after the death of its mother. They think, even though it's not two years old yet, it will have the instinct to find a suitable den.

Mark Heinz & Greg JohnsonOctober 23, 2024

Wyoming wildlife photographer Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven followed Grizzly 399 for years. This was one of his favorite photos of her, standing at Pilgrim in Grand Teton National Park amid springtime wildflowers.

Wyoming And The World Hit Hard By Death Of World’s Most Famous Bear, Grizzly 399

The long reign of the “Queen of the Tetons” came to an end late Tuesday, when Grizzly 399 was struck and killed by a vehicle south of Jackson. “Horrible news. She made it all the way to 28, only to get killed by a car," said wildlife photographer Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven.

Mark HeinzOctober 23, 2024

Grizzly 399 and her 2023 cub were spotted for the first time in 2023 on May 16. (Photo is owned by Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven and may not be reproduced)

Grand Teton Wildlife Officials “Devastated” By Death Of Grizzly 399

As the public responds with grief over the death of Grizzly 399, Grand Teton wildlife officials are “devastated.” They say the world's most famous bear had become a symbol for the Grand Tetons and the state of Wyoming.

Greg JohnsonOctober 23, 2024

Grizzly 399 with her cub, Spirit.

World Famous Grizzly 399 Dead After Hit By Vehicle

Grizzly 399, perhaps the most famous and popular bear in the world, was hit by a car and killed Tuesday night. She was 28. The bear’s identity was confirmed through ear tags and a microchip.

Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2024

The sun rises over a community fire information board for the Elk Fire in the Bighorns of Wyoming.

Huge Wyoming Wildfires Can Still Be Dangerous, Firefighters Warn

Last week’s blast of winter cooled down the Elk and Pack Trail fires that have burned 185,000 acres in Wyoming. But firefighters warn that the fires aren’t out and can still be dangerous.

Greg JohnsonOctober 22, 2024

Freshman Eli Hill stripping an elk head at the Bugs ‘n Bones class at Wind River High School in Pavillion, Wyoming.

Wyoming High Schoolers Use Bugs, Power Tools To Clean Skulls For Hunters

Bugs and power tools are part of the curriculum for a class of Wyoming high schoolers. It’s the Bugs N’ Bones class at Wind River High, where students learn while they clean skulls for hunters.

Jackie DorothyOctober 20, 2024

Even with the rain and snow that fell on the Pack Trail Fire on Thursday and Friday, there are still plenty of hot spots burning.

Almost No Growth For Wyoming’s Large Wildfires, But Weather Reprieve Is Over

A two-day blast of winter dropped significant rain and snow on Wyoming’s two large wildfires, slowing them to almost no growth. But that reprieve is over, with warmer temperatures and more fire activity expected.

Greg JohnsonOctober 20, 2024

Becky Barber and Jester.

Dog Killed In Beaver Trap Could Heat Up Debate For Wyoming Trapping Reform

An Afton woman whose dog was killed in a beaver trap is pushing for trapping reform in Wyoming. But a trapper argues the changes would do more harm than good.

Mark HeinzOctober 19, 2024

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Serious Health Conditions Don’t Stop Kids From Hunting Wyoming Big Game

Kaden Achor might not be able to walk because of cerebral palsy, but that didn’t stop him from stalking a big Wyoming bull elk. He crawled the last 75 yards or so across rough ground between Farson and Lander, trying his best to dodge prairie cactus. Then he had to pull off a 500-yard shot.

Mark HeinzOctober 19, 2024

Despite the wet and snowy weather, fire crews continue working the Pack Trail Fire in northwest wyoming.

Evacuations Lifted For All But 1 Person In Path Of Massive Wyoming Wildfires

Evacuations have been lifted for all but 1 person in the path of two massive Wyoming wildfires on Saturday. Two days of rain and snow haven’t put out the Elk and Pack Trail fires, but has “really put a hurt” on them.

Greg JohnsonOctober 19, 2024

The least-used entrance to Yellowstone National Park, the Southwest Entrance (aka Cascde Corner or the Bechler Entrance) is a dirt road that leads to some spectacular waterfalls and a historic Army outpost.

Yellowstone’s Least-Used Entrance Leads To Waterfalls, Historic Army Outpost

Yellowstone refers to the Bechler region as the park’s least traveled entrance because it is so far from any developed areas inside or outside the park. The dirt road barely shows up on some maps, but leads to stunning waterfalls, fields of blue meadows, and an historic Army outpost.

Andrew RossiOctober 19, 2024

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If Feds De-List Wolves, Will Other States Follow Wyoming’s Lead And Hunt Them?

The Fish & Wildlife Service is trying to remove federal protection for wolves across the Lower 48. If that happens, it would be up to the states whether to allow wolves to be hunted. Hunting is already allowed in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

Mark HeinzOctober 18, 2024

The face of the Bighorn Mountains over Dayton, Wyoming, are dusted with snow Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, a welcome sight from two weeks earlier when most of the mountain was glowing with a raging wildfire.

Snowstorm A “Thank You, God” Event For Those Living In Shadow Of Elk Fire

Seeing snow on the face of Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains on Friday was a “thank you, God” moment for those threatened by the Elk Fire. It’s already burned 96,000 acres, but the storm has helped firefighters go from 28% containment to 44%.

Greg JohnsonOctober 18, 2024

This image from the Bear Lodge Resort webcam in the Wyoming Bighorns shows the arrival of much-anticipated snow. The lodge is near the Elk Fire, which has grown to about 96,000 acres.

Firefighters’ Prayers Answered With Snow Falling On Huge Wyoming Wildfires

Snow is finally falling on a pair of huge Wyoming wildfires. It’s literally the answer to the prayers of firefighters and locals living under the threat of the Elk and Pack Trail fires.

Renée JeanOctober 17, 2024

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Opponents Say Proposed Colorado Mountain Lion Hunting Ban Is “Ballot-Box Biology”

Colorado voters on Nov. 5 will decide a proposed ban on mountain lion hunting. The ballot question has sparked a debate over what opponents call managing wildlife through “ballot-box biology.”

Mark HeinzOctober 16, 2024

This mule deer doe showed up Oct. 7 on Dave Paullin’s rural property near Sheridan. The burn marks on her flank indicate the she barely outran the massive Elk Fire, which exploded across eight miles the night before.

Spry Wyoming Doe Has Burn Marks To Prove She Outran Huge Elk Fire

A Sheridan-area resident said a mule deer doe showed up on his property bearing burn marks from having outrun the massive, fast-moving Elk Fire. The fire has burned more than 92,000 acres across the face of the Wyoming Bighorns.

Mark HeinzOctober 16, 2024

The Elk Fire remains active in northern Wyoming, putting out large plumes of smoke.

Sheridan Area Residents Cheer Forecast For 7-13 Inches Of Snow

People in Story and other communities along the Bighorns were literally cheering Wednesday when the weather forecast predicted 7-13 inches of snow. It will help, but it’s probably not a fire-killer.

Renée JeanOctober 16, 2024

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Forest Service Won't Blow Up Dead Horses Due To Fire Danger

When a horse dies in the Wyoming backcountry, sometimes the best option is to blow it to pieces so it won’t attract grizzlies. In Wyoming right now, the U.S. Forest Service says the fire danger is too extreme to explode any dead backcountry horses.

Mark HeinzOctober 15, 2024

Portable water ponds set up at a home in the path of the Elk Fire. Dozer line and fire retardant have already been set in place to protect the home if and when the fire gets to this point. It's part of the structure protection measures put in place for homes in the area.

Massive Effort Building 7-Mile Line To Keep Elk Fire From Wyoming Towns

Firefighters have charred a 7-mile strip of ground between Big Horn and Story, starting from Goose Creek. It’s a buffer zone between Wyoming communities at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains that will act as a “catcher’s mitt” to stop the Elk Fire.

Renée JeanOctober 15, 2024

A small plane is seen from above making a run to drop retardant on spot fires burning in the Pack Trail Fire.

Elk, Pack Trail Fires Each Close In On 100,000 Acres, Snow Can’t Come Soon Enough

With Wyoming’s two active wildfires each closing in on 100,000 acres, snow expected for the end of the week can’t come soon enough. Even when it does, fire management officials say it won’t be enough to kill the Elk and Pack Trail fires.

Greg JohnsonOctober 15, 2024

A woman is mobbed by racoons in this video taken late Sunday in the parking lot of the downtown Casper Best Western hotel. A hotel employee said racoons are a common sight, but an entire mob of them, such as this, is almost unheard of.

Gang Of Raccoons Mobs Woman In Casper Hotel Parking Lot

A woman was mobbed by raccoons in a Casper hotel parking lot Sunday. A hotel employee said raccoons frequent the area, but don’t usually gang up on people.

Mark HeinzOctober 15, 2024

Volunteers remove debris from around Story homes to help protect them in case the Elk Fire gets too close.

Townspeople Of Story, Wyoming, Rally To Protect Homes In Path Of Huge Wildfire

It's a monumental challenge, but townspeople in the forested community of Story are rallying together to rid the area of pine needles, pine cones, and other fire fuels as the 90,000-acre Elk Fire gets closer and closer.

Renée JeanOctober 14, 2024

Logan Wilson has been using hound dogs to hunt mountain lions in Wyoming for about three years.

Mountain Lions Gobble Up Pets And Four Goats In Story, Wyoming

Mountain lions are killing pets and livestock, including four goats, in and around the tiny Wyoming mountain town of Story. An area houndsman has stepped in to help chase the lions out.

Mark HeinzOctober 14, 2024

A large jet tanker drops a load of retardant on the Elk Fire.

13 Aircraft Maintaining An All-Out Air Assault On 90,000-Acre Elk Fire

In addition to nearly 1,000 people fighting the Elk Fire on the ground, 13 aircraft are assigned to battle. It’s more than most fires get, and they’re maintaining an all-out aerial assault on the nearly 90,000-acre fire.

Renée JeanOctober 14, 2024

Three horses recently arrived at an animal rescue center near Cheyenne, including a mare and her foal, and another mare that is pregnant. The center’s director would like to know more about them and where they came from.

Group Of Horses May Have Been Left Homeless By Wyoming Wildfires

The owner of an animal rescue facility east of Cheyenne wants the previous owners of a mare, her foal, and another mare that's pregnant to know that the animals are safe and will be well-cared for. She wonders if they were forced to sell because of the wildfires.

Mark HeinzOctober 13, 2024

Jerry Nelson is a retired geology professor from Casper. He was once treed by a grizzly and credits the dogs he had with him at the time (not the dog pictured here) for helping to save the day.

Casper Man Says Climbing A Tree Saved Him From Grizzly Attack

A Casper man says he’s living proof that climbing a tree can help someone survive a grizzly attack because he did it in the 1970s when a bear charged him. He says his two black Labs played a big role too as they kept the mama grizzly and her two cubs busy while they waited it out.

Mark HeinzOctober 13, 2024

At the Elk View Inn near Dayton, the Elk Fire appears intimidating. Although an estimated 7-8 miles away, it appears huge and threatening. The inn is close to Antelope Butte, where a Spike Camp has been established.

Firefighting “Spike Camp” Near Burgess Junction Tackles Elk Fire From The West

The Elk Fire has burned about 87,000 acres on the Bighorn Mountains in northern Wyoming. While most of the attention has been the fire’s relentless push southeast, a firefighting “spike camp” near Burgess Junction is fighting it from the west.

Renée JeanOctober 13, 2024

Aircraft continue to drop huge loads of fire retardant slurry around the Elk Fire to try and slow or halt it's spread and help establish fire lines.

Elk Fire Continues Its Southeast March, Grows Again To More Than 87,000 Acres

Like a column of soldiers, the Elk Fire in northern Wyoming continues its methodical — and at times seemingly relentless — march southeast. It’s grown again to more than 87,000 acres as of Sunday and a little less contained at 28%.

Greg JohnsonOctober 13, 2024

A firefighter picks up one of each type of lunch, vegetarian and non-vegetarian.

It Takes A Makeshift City To Support The Nearly 1,000 Elk Fire Firefighters

There are nearly 1,000 firefighters and support personnel assigned to the Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team fighting the Elk Fire in northern Wyoming. It takes a makeshift city to support them all.

Renée JeanOctober 12, 2024

Two Ocean Creek in Wyoming's Teton Wilderness is the only body of water on the planet that splits and flows into both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.

Wyoming's Two Ocean Creek Is Only Body Of Water That Flows Into Atlantic And Pacific

Parting of the Waters deep in the Teton Wilderness is a uniquely Wyoming wonder where Two Ocean Creek splits, flowing into both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It’s the only body of water on the planet to do that.

Andrew RossiOctober 12, 2024

Firefighters on the ground do strategic burning to help gain control of the Elk Fire.

Stubborn Elk Fire Grows To Nearly 85,000 Acres, But Now 32% Contained

The huge Elk Fire in northern Wyoming continues to be a stubborn, dangerous event, growing to nearly 85,000 acres by Saturday. But firefighters are making significant progress, achieving 32% containment.

Greg JohnsonOctober 12, 2024

Park County voters line up to cast their ballots at the Cody Rec Center for the Aug. 20, 2024, Wyoming primary election.

Wyoming Hunters And Gun Owners Buck National Trend Of Not Voting

Nationwide apathy and distrust of government has caused a drop in hunters and gun owners registering to vote, reports Vote4America. But not in Wyoming, where hunters and gun owners buck that trend, likely because they feel supported by conservatives.

Mark HeinzOctober 11, 2024

A giant jackalope at the Douglas Railroad Museum.

The Hardest Part Of Making Jackalopes? Finding Enough Frozen Wyoming Jackrabbits

A Montana taxidermist who creates jackalope mounts says Wyoming jackrabbit carcasses are the best for them. But he’s having a hard time getting the 200-300 frozen carcasses a month he needs.

Mark HeinzOctober 11, 2024

The flames may seem ominous, but they're part of a strategic burn in the southern part of the Elk Fire overnight Thursday, as seen in this stunning photo taken by Jeffrey Shanor of Sheridan.

Fiery Glow On Bighorns Overnight Was Intentional Burning To Slow Elk Fire

Another night of watching the Bighorn Mountains glow above them made some living in the shadow of the Elk Fire nervous overnight Thursday. But the huge, scary and dramatic column of fire was part of a plan to save Sheridan’s water supply, as well as slow the fire down.

Renée JeanOctober 11, 2024

Jacob Williamson discovered a wildfire burning near Sheridan. He stopped, called it in, then got busy fighting it.

Fast-Acting WYDOT Worker Spots New Wildfire, Calls 911, Then Helps Put It Out

An alert Wyoming Department of Transportation worker spotted a new wildfire taking off 7 miles north of Sheridan along I-90. He called 911, then jumped into action himself, helping to put it out before the fire became a catastrophe.

Renée JeanOctober 11, 2024

Mike Parsley teaches dogs to recognize and avoid danger, like rattlesnakes. After hearing the story of a Wyoming dog caught in a beaver trap, he developed a course specifically for dogs to avoid them.

Wyoming Dog’s Death In Beaver Trap Inspires New Training Course

A Wyoming dog’s death in a beaver trap has inspired a first-of-its-kind training course for dogs. A trainer who already teaches dogs to avoid rattlesnakes and other dangers has added traps to the program.

Mark HeinzOctober 10, 2024

The Elk Fire has left the face of the Bighorn Mountains above Dayton, Wyoming, blackened.

Elk Fire Breaking The Rules Of Wildfires And ‘Is Behaving Like A Teenager’

The strategists in charge of battling the huge 76,000-acre Elk Fire in northern Wyoming say the stubborn blaze is breaking the rules of wildfires. One said it even seems oppositional to authority and “is behaving like a teenager.”

Renée JeanOctober 10, 2024

Warren Tritschler is a guy with a water tank and a garden hose, determined to do whatever possible to protect his home and his property. The Buckhorn Travel Center owner has started a fuel fund for other Hillbilly Hotshots, to help them with the cost of fuel for their trucks and their water pumps.

Armed With A Hose And Weed Sprayer, Wyoming Man Defends His Home From Elk Fire

Warren Tritschler defended his home in the Horseshoe subdivision near Dayton from the Elk Fire with a garden hose and a weed sprayer. He’s one of the many so-called “Hillbilly Hotshots” determined to help fight the huge wildfire.

Renée JeanOctober 09, 2024

Grazer has stuffed herself with so much Alaska salmon that she's been crowned the 2014 Fat Bear Week champion. She also won in 2023.

Gloriously Plump Mama Crowned Queen Of ‘Fat Bear Week’

Alaska brown bears gorge themselves on salmon for the upcoming winter, oblivious they’re competing for a coveted title — Fat Bear Week champion. This year’s winner is Grazer, a bulked-out bruin that ate her way to back-to-back titles.

Mark HeinzOctober 09, 2024

Firefighters attached to the Pack Trail Fire incident management team pore over a map of the fire, which clearly shows the Fish Creek Fire to the north and Pack Trail to the south that have merged into a single 66,000-acre fire complex.

Pack Trail Fire Still Growing In Northwest Wyoming, Now At 66,000 Acres

Much of Wyoming is watching the Elk Fire, which has threatened communities in Sheridan County. But the Pack Trail Fire started first in rugged northwest Wyoming. It’s at 66,000 acres and still growing.

October 09, 2024

Jill Valley of KPAX news in Missoula, Montana, was at Steamboat Geyeser in Yellowstone National Park to capture video of one of its infrequent eruptions on Oct. 7, 2024.

Steamboat, World’s Largest Geyser, Erupts For Fifth Time This Year

Steamboat Geyser, the largest in Yellowstone and the world, erupted for the fifth time this year Monday. After six years of active eruptions, volcanologists say Steamboat seems to be losing some steam.

Andrew RossiOctober 09, 2024

After 100 raccoons invaded a Washington woman’s property and drove her from her home, things could end badly for the raccoons. Wyoming wildlife experts say it’s a lesson on why you shouldn’t feed wild animals.

Mob Of 100 Hungry Raccoons Drives Woman From Her Home

After 100 raccoons invaded a Washington woman’s property and drove her from her home, things could end badly for the raccoons. Wyoming wildlife experts say it’s a lesson on why you shouldn’t feed wild animals.

Mark HeinzOctober 09, 2024

A fire crew maps out a plan of attack as a column of smoke rises from the Elk Fire in northern Wyoming.

Firefighters Hold Off Elk Fire As It Threatens Sheridan’s Water Supply

As the 76,000-acre Elk Fire continues to be active and push southeast along the face of the Bighorn Mountains, it’s threatening Sheridan’s water supply. The fire made a run at the Big Goose Water Treatment Plant early Wednesday.

Greg JohnsonOctober 09, 2024

Local residents near the Elk Fire in northern Wyoming are also helping to keep their homes and land from burning. They're affectionately called the Hillbilly Hotshots.

Rural Wyomingites — AKA Hotshot Hillbillies — Help Save 1887 Double Rafter Ranch

The Double Rafter Ranch has been a fixture in northern Wyoming since 1887. It’s still there, thanks in part to the local Hillbilly Hotshots — a group of self-appointed rancher-firefighters — who helped save it from the Elk Fire.

Renée JeanOctober 08, 2024

This Teton County Search and Rescue helicopter is specially designed for operations in high, rugged mountains. This Teton County Search and Rescue helicopter is specially designed for operations in high, rugged mountains.

Wyoming Search And Rescue Team Recovers Body From Remote Colorado Peak

After Colorado teams twice tried to recover a man’s body from a remote mountain peak, Teton County Search and Rescue recovered his remains last week. The Wyoming team had the right equipment and training to help bring closure for his family.

Mark HeinzOctober 08, 2024

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Climbing A Tree To Escape A Grizzly Not The Best Idea, Outdoorsmen Say

In yet another conflict between a hunter and grizzly bears, a Montana man tried climbing a tree to escape one Saturday. It didn’t work. Grizzlies can climb too, and the hunter had to shoot the bear.

Mark HeinzOctober 08, 2024

Firefighters are nearby to fight the Elk Fire all around its perimiter and interior, where accessible.

“These Guys Are Heroes”: Locals Praise Crews Fighting 75,000-Acre Elk Fire

As firefighting crews continue to make progress on stemming the growth of the huge 75,000-acre Elk Fire in northeast Wyoming, locals are noticing. “These guys are heroes in my mind,” one lifelong Dayton resident said Tuesday.

Greg JohnsonOctober 08, 2024

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Black Bear With Cubs Killed After Breaking Into Colorado Home

A black bear with three cubs broke into a Colorado couple’s home, attacked and injured a man. Game agents killed all four bears.

Mark HeinzOctober 08, 2024

A white-tailed jackrabbit in the brush at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.

Why Wyoming Jackrabbits Are “Predatory” Animals, On Par With Coyotes And Wolves

In Wyoming, Jackrabbits are classified as “predatory” animals, on par with coyotes and wolves in about 85% of the state. It’s not because they kill livestock, but because they can devastate crops.

Mark HeinzOctober 07, 2024

A large herd of elk runs away from the Elk Fire in northern Wyoming.

Huge Wildfire Is Hammering ‘Elk Factory’ In Bighorns, Ruins This Year’s Hunting

The massive 73,000-acre Elk Fire near Dayton, Wyoming, has all but ruined the elk and deer hunting season in some premier areas. It's hammering the "elk factory" that is the Bighorns.

Mark HeinzOctober 07, 2024

A group of people watch as a ribbon of fire burns it way across the face of the Bighorns near Dayton and Parkman, Wyoming.

Crews “Ready To Go On The Offensive” Fighting Huge 73,000-Acre Elk Fire

For the first time since the Elk Fire literally blew up overnight more than a week ago, firefighters on Monday said they are preparing to attack the 73,000-acre wildfire rather than react to it. "We’re ready to go on the offense," one firefighter said.

Greg JohnsonOctober 07, 2024

Portrait of wildlands advocate Margaret Murie.

How Mardy Murie, Wyoming’s Grandmother Of Conservation, Inspired The Wilderness Act

From Alaska to Wyoming, Margaret “Mardy” Murie and her family were advocates for keeping the wilderness wild. Known as the Grandmother of Conservation, she and husband Olaus helped inspire the Wilderness Act.

Jackie DorothyOctober 06, 2024

The 2024 Wyoming Smokebusters, back row from left: Crew Supervisor Shawn Ankeny, Robert Zaragoza, Sheldon Buckingham, Bryce Teran, John Murphy, Module Leader Jeremy Deplitch, Joshua Cole, Randy Stephens, Walter Eiden, Kevin Brown and Crew Supervisor Lee Loberg. Front row: Jared Millard, Christopher Robertson, Zachary Manning, Tyler Jones, James Skinner and Jeremiah Carson.

Wyoming Inmates Put To Work During Heartbreaking Wildfire Season

With more than 700,000 acres burned due to wildfires across the state of Wyoming, resources are tapped. Thankfully a crew of inmates known as the Smokebusters are helping the firefighters. So far, they have worked on 26 fires in eight counties.

Jen KocherOctober 06, 2024

The small, rural Wyoming town of Dayton can only watch and pray as the Elk Fire burns across the mountain face of the Bighorns above.

Elk Fire Now At 74,000 Acres And Still Out Of Control, But Some Signs Of Hope

The Elk Fire burning in northern Wyoming remains out of control, dangerous and unpredictable. It’s now at 74,000 acres and growing, but some signs of hope as rancher says “positive energy” helped save her ranch.

Greg JohnsonOctober 06, 2024

The rugged and remote Green Mountain area in the Laramie Range in Albany County is prized for its elk and bighorn sheep hunting. The proposed Britania Land Exchange would trade rugged Forest Service Land in Albany for two parchels farther to the north.

Forest Service Shouldn’t Trade ‘Hidden Oasis’ Of Prime Hunting Land, Critics Say

Critics of a pending land exchange say a remote and rugged piece of federal land in the Laramie Range mountains is a paradise for hunters, and the U.S. Forest Service should keep it. It’s prime elk and bighorn sheep habitat – accessible only by foot or horseback.

Mark HeinzOctober 05, 2024

The small, rural Wyoming town of Dayton can only watch and pray as the Elk Fire burns across the mountain face of the Bighorns above.

Ian Munsick Starts GoFundMe to Help His Hometown Communities With The Elk Fire

Although country superstar Ian Munsick is performing at the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper on Saturday, his mind is on the Elk Fire -- which is threatening the communities in northern Wyoming where he grew up. Munsick's GoFundMe has already topped the $50,000 goal and is growing.

Renée JeanOctober 05, 2024

Coy Monroe, 14, of Encampment has already filled his 2024 big game archery tags – with an antelope, elk and deer. He hopes to get a mountain lion this winter.

Wyoming 14-Year-Old Bowhunter Has Banner Season, Gets Elk, Deer And Antelope

As October begins, many hunters are just getting started filling their tags for Wyoming’s three premier big game species – antelope, deer and elk. Coy Monroe, a 14-year-old from Encampment, is way ahead of everyone -- having already bagged all three, with his bow.

Mark HeinzOctober 05, 2024

The small, rural Wyoming town of Dayton can only watch and pray as the Elk Fire burns across the mountain face of the Bighorns above.

As Elk Fire Rages, Dayton Watches While Mountain Above “Just Glowing Orange”

Folks in rural Dayton, Wyoming, were awakened at 3 a.m. Saturday and told to be ready to evacuate. Meanwhile, all they can do is watch as the Mountain above them is “just glowing orange.”

Greg JohnsonOctober 05, 2024

Arthur "Jack" Schubarth

Montana Man, 81, Gets Prison For Scheme To Create Huge Hybrid Bighorn Sheep

An 81-year-old Montana man was sentenced to six months in prison this week for trying to create huge hybrid bighorn sheep using “Jurassic Park”-like techniques.

Mark HeinzOctober 04, 2024

View of the Fish Creek and Pack Trail fire area from the Gros Ventre.

Wyoming’s Pack Trail, Elk Fires Are Top Wildfire Priorities In Region

The Pack Trail Fire has burned nearly 20,000 acres in the Shoshoni National Forest and is expecting high winds to continue throughout the weekend. It and the Elk Fire in Sheridan County are the No. 1 wildfire priorities in the region.

Renée JeanOctober 04, 2024

Grizzly roar 2 11 24 copy

In Brief: Grizzly Killed For Killing Dog, Raiding Camps In Beartooth Mountains

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department says it killed a young male grizzly that was raiding camps in the Beartooth Mountains, then killed a hiker’s dog.

Mark HeinzOctober 04, 2024

The Elk Fire burns close to the town of Dayton, Wyoming.

No End In Sight For Folks In Path Of 51,000-Acre Elk Fire In Northern Wyoming

It may seem a little like “Groundhog Day” for folks in northern Wyoming in the path of the Elk Fire. The 51,000-acre wildfire is still uncontained, unpredictable and more of the same is expected.

Greg JohnsonOctober 04, 2024

Colorado Parks and Wildlife says that the wolf in this photo a lone leftover pup from the Copper Creek Pack. But others say it’s a small adult female wolf, perhaps from Wyoming.

Uncollared Wolf Spotted In Colorado May Have Come From Wyoming

An uncollared wolf spotted in northern Colorado has sparked controversy. Wildife officials say it’s lone pup from a pack they trapped, but others think it’s an adult from Wyoming.

Mark HeinzOctober 03, 2024

Andrew Johnson said he killed this mountain lion with a shovel late Sept. 25, when the big cat came directly for him and his dog at their campsite in Colorado.

Man Who Killed Mountain Lion With A Shovel Says It Came At Him ‘Low And Fast’

A man who killed a mountain lion with a shovel told Cowboy State Daily on Thursday that he has no doubt the lion was trying to kill his dog. It came at them both “low and fast.”

Mark HeinzOctober 03, 2024

Highway 14 south of Dayton, Wyoming, remains closed because of the Elk Fire.

Elk Fire Now 50,000 Acres, Spreading “In All Directions” In Northern Wyoming

The unpredictable and dangerous Elk Fire burning west of Dayton and Parkman in northern Wyoming has grown to 50,000 acres. It’s also spreading “in all directions.”

Greg JohnsonOctober 03, 2024

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Colorado Man Kills Mountain Lion With Shovel To Keep It From Eating His Dog

A Colorado man killed a mountain lion with a shovel to keep it from eating his dog last week, wildlife officials reported Wednesday. It’s an impressive feat, an experienced Wyoming mountain lion hunter said.

Mark HeinzOctober 03, 2024

There are plenty of huge polar bears prowling near the oil fields of Alaska's North Slope, where Gillette resident Tex McBride works two to three weeks at a time.

Gillette Welder Commutes To Alaska, Works Next To Polar Bears

Gillette's Tex McBride has an interesting commute. For two- to three-week stretches, he heads up to the North Slope of Alaska where he welds for an Arctic drilling company and frequently sees polar bears. “They’re frickin’ huge," he says. "It's frickin' awesome."

Mark HeinzOctober 02, 2024

At the Elk View Inn near Dayton, the Elk Fire appears intimidating. Although an estimated 7-8 miles away, it appears huge and threatening.

More Evacuations Ordered As Huge Wildfire Threatens Northern Wyoming Towns

Winds have blown the 32,000-acre Elk Fire toward the northern Wyoming town of Parkman, while also threatening nearby Dayton. Additional evacuations have been ordered with the weather forecast calling for even more wind.

Greg JohnsonOctober 02, 2024

A bear-resistant fence around the Wapiti Elementary School west of Cody keeps bears from climbing into the schoolyard.

Bear-Proof Fence, “Grizzly Drills” Just Routine At Wyoming’s Wapiti School

Wapiti Elementary School west of Cody is like many other rural Wyoming schools — except its surrounded by a bear-resistant fence. Teachers running “grizzly drills” with kids is part of the routine.

Mark HeinzOctober 01, 2024

The fast-growing Pack Trail Fire just southeast of the Fish Creek Fire has grown rapidly, with firefighting crews now treating the two fires as a single Fish Creek/Pack Trail complex. Both are burning in the Shoshone National Forest and threatening Highway 26 and nearby residential areas.

At 18,000 Acres And No Containment, Reinforcements Called In For Pack Trail Fire

After blowing up to 18,000 acres with 0% containment, the Pack Trail Fire has prompted evacuations and closures. Reinforcements are on the way, with a complex incident management team on the way.

Renée JeanOctober 01, 2024

The Elk Fire burns down the face of the Bighorns over Dayton, Wyoming.

Dayton Watched As Mountain Above Them Burned

Not many of Dayton, Wyoming’s, 830 residents got much sleep Sunday night as they watched the Elk Fire burn down the mountain face above them. The fire didn’t get to the town, but has grown to about 32,000 acres.

Greg JohnsonOctober 01, 2024

A vocal crowd showed up to give comment to the Joint Travel, Recreation and Wildlife Resources Committee meeting at the Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne on Monday, Sept. 30, 2024. Most spoke against a proposed bill that stops short of banning running down wolves and other predators with snowmobiles.

Wyoming Legislators Stop Short Of Banning Running Over Wolves With Snowmobiles

Despite calls to criminalize running down Wyoming wolves with snowmobiles, a legislative committee Monday advanced a bill that stops short of banning it. It would require the animal to be immediately killed if run down.

Mark HeinzSeptember 30, 2024

It may seem like deja vu for folks at the Brooks Lake Lodge and surroundings areas as a huge plume of smoke rises from the nearby Pack Trail Fire, which blew up to nearly 20,000 acres overnight Sunday.

Wildfire Rages To 18,000 Acres In Bridger-Teton Forest, Pulling Crews Off Nearby Fire

A lightning strike deep in Wyoming’s Bridger-Teton National Forest blew up overnight Sunday to nearly 18,000 acres. It also prompted new evacuation orders for Brooks Lake and Lava Mountain Lodges, as well as ranches and the KOA campground.

Renée JeanSeptember 30, 2024

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Hunter’s Pistol Jam During Grizzly Attack Could Have Been Because Of Ammo, Grip

An archery hunter’s Glock pistol jamming on him twice during a Wyoming grizzly attack Thursday could have been due to a variety of factors. But gun experts say he did well in terrifying situation.

Mark HeinzSeptember 30, 2024

The Elk Fire burning in northern Wyoming has prompted evacuations and concern from people who live near the fire's path, particularly the communties of Dayton and Parkman.

More Evacuations Ordered For People In Path Of 25,000-Acre Elk Fire

Some people were evacuated over the weekend and more Monday as the 25,000-acre Elk Fire near Dayton in northern Wyoming continues to burn. The growth of the fire slowed Monday, but it's still uncontrolled and a threat to homes in its path.

Renée JeanSeptember 30, 2024

Eric Widmaier of Maryland loves to hunt in Wyoming. To get the choice cuts of game meat – backstraps and tenderloins – back home, he seals them inside a soft-sided cooler. He takes the cooler aboard the airplane as part of his carry-on luggage. He'll ship the rest back to be delivered on his front porch, which can coat $600-$800.

How Out-Of-State Hunters Get Their Game Meat Back Home

Hunters who come from all over the country for Wyoming’s legendary big game face a quandary — how to get all that meat back home. The solutions are varied, but rarely cheap.

Mark HeinzSeptember 29, 2024

Chester, a packhorse from Utah, was photographed Tuesday on a county road near Bondurant after he went missing for four days and five nights in the Wyoming wilds. He was caught early the next day.

The Adventures Of Chester, A Runaway Packhorse In The Wilds Of Wyoming

Chester is a huge roan packhorse from Utah that disappeared for five nights in the remote wilds of Wyoming and was found on a country road in Bondurant last week. He survived in bear and wolf country, but his adventures will remain a mystery.

Mark HeinzSeptember 29, 2024

Training Captain Brian Lash is on a two-week rotation piloting an MD-87 tanker, dropping slurry on a host of Wyoming wildfires from a newly opened tanker hub at Casper-Natrona International Airport.

Pilots Drop Water And Slurry Bombs Like They're At War With Wyoming Wildfires

Along with hundreds of firefighters on the ground, Wyoming’s huge summer wildfires have been attacked from the air. Pilots like Brian Lash drop water and slurry bombs like they're at war with the fires.

Dale KillingbeckSeptember 29, 2024

Chase Melton, 19, of Sugar Camp, Wisconsin, said he shot this wolf in self-defense after he and two kids he took duck hunting in Wisconsin were surrounded by a wolf pack. Unlike in Wyoming, wolves can’t be legally hunted in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Duck Hunter Claims He Killed Wolf In Self Defense; Case Under Investigation

A Wisconsin duck hunter said he was surrounded by a pack of aggressive wolves and shot one in self-defense. Unlike in Wyoming, wolves remain federally protected in Wisconsin and can’t be hunted. The man says he's confident he'll be cleared.

Mark HeinzSeptember 28, 2024

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Now 4 Grizzlies Have Drowned In A Canal Near Cody; Advocates Say Bear Ladders Needed

When grizzlies enter the canal, they find out too late that they can’t climb back out of the concrete lining, so they become exhausted and eventually drown. A former federal ecologist and bear advocate says installing ladders on both sides would prevent that from happening.

Mark HeinzSeptember 28, 2024

Belgian Pool in Yellowstone National Park.

Inside Yellowstone: Belgian Pool Named For Tourist From Belgium Who Fell In And Died

When Yellowstone became the first national park in 1872, Belgian Pool was known as Oyster Spring. It was renamed to Belgian Pool in 1929, when a newspaper editor from Belgium fell in the 180 degree water and died.

Andrew RossiSeptember 28, 2024

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