Wildlife managers are investigating after three Mexican gray wolves were found dead in Arizona and New Mexico.
According to the latest monthly report on the status of the endangered predators, a female wolf from the Hoodoo Pack and a single male were found dead in June in Arizona. In New Mexico, a male wolf was found dead from the Marble Pack.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department did not release any further details about the deaths. The agency partners with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the wolf reintroduction program.
Illegal shootings, politics and legal battles have hampered the program over the years. Environmentalists want more captive wolves released, but ranchers and some local leaders are concerned about livestock losses and public safety.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
