Wildlife Habitat

Chronic wasting disease (CWD)

CWD sampling is available statewide.

Carcass movement, processing and disposal

The movement of dead or alive CWD-positive deer, moose, elk or reindeer/caribou (natural or human-assisted) is a key pathway in the spread of CWD. The infectious nature of the CWD prion contributes to an increased risk of introduction and spread of…

Wildlife and Your Land

The Wildlife and Your Land series is designed to offer suggestions to you, the private landowner, on how to manage your land for wildlife. Each part of the series focuses on management practices that you can apply to your land, but first, let's…

Gray wolf depredation reports and maps

Following a federal court ruling on Feb. 10, 2022, gray wolves are listed as an endangered species in the lower 48 states (excluding the northern Rocky Mountains region). As such, wolves are federally protected. Harvest and lethal depredation…

Guidance for hunters and pet owners

As with other wild canids, wolves are very territorial and will guard their territories against other wolves, coyotes and domestic dogs. Hunters with hounds Hound dogs used for hunting bear, coyotes, bobcat and raccoon are perhaps at greatest risk…

Dog depredations by wolves in Wisconsin

Dog owners are reminded to exercise caution in wolf-occupied areas, especially those using their dogs to hunt. Conflicts between hunting dogs and wolves are most common during the bear training and hunting season. Dogs have also been depredated…

Wolves in Wisconsin

The DNR recently accepted applications for stakeholder seats on the Wolf Advisory Committee, and the application period is now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied.

Wisconsin deer hunter wildlife survey

Wildlife health

The DNR reminds Wisconsin that the virus that has caused highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild birds is still present in the state. Information on HPAI can be found on our Avian Influenza webpage.

Wisconsin waterfowl surveys

The public input period on the proposed 2026-2030 duck hunting season zones and splits has now closed. This opportunity only occurs every five years and the DNR appreciates all of the feedback provided by the public. The results from this public…