Yellowstone National Park mourns the loss of one of its most iconic residents, wolf 907F, affectionately known as the “Queen of the Wolves.” This remarkable canine lived a long and eventful life, surpassing the average lifespan of a wild wolf threefold. Researchers confirmed her passing this Christmas, bringing an end to her reign.
907F’s death was first reported by CowboyStateDaily in late December 2024. According to researchers with the Yellowstone Wolf, Cougar and Elk Project, she succumbed to injuries sustained during a territorial dispute with a rival pack just days before Christmas. At 11.8 years old, she had defied the odds, living a life three times longer than the typical wild wolf.
Born in 2013, 907F’s journey was marked by resilience. She battled a severe case of mange early on, a testament to her strength. By 2017, she ascended to the alpha female position within the Junction Butte pack, according to project researchers. Although she eventually relinquished this role, she remained a vital member of her pack.
Around the age of four, 907F lost her left eye, likely from a fight. Later in life, she developed a noticeable limp. Yet, these challenges didn’t deter her. She continued to thrive, raising several litters of pups, including her last in May 2024 at the impressive age of 11. While the exact number of offspring remains unknown, project researcher Taylor Rabe described her as “the most reproductively successful wolf in Yellowstone history” to CowboyStateDaily.
This longevity is exceptional. Most wild wolves live only three to four years. Since their reintroduction to Yellowstone 30 years ago, only six wolves have been recorded living to the age of 11, as reported by Smithsonian Magazine. Currently, Yellowstone’s wolf population is estimated between 83 and 123.
The fateful encounter occurred on December 22nd, when 907F and her pack clashed with a rival pack encroaching on their territory. Although she survived the initial confrontation, her injuries proved fatal. Researchers, tracking her via radio collar, observed her lack of movement, confirming her death sometime on Christmas Day.
While 907F’s passing is a loss for the researchers and wolf enthusiasts who followed her life, there’s a measure of solace. Many wild animals die due to human-related incidents, such as vehicle collisions. 907F’s end, though violent, was a natural one, occurring within the wild landscape she called home.
“It’s sad,” Rabe shared with CowboyStateDaily. “But specifically for all of us on the project, we always like to see a wolf die naturally, rather than at the hands of a human. It gives us peace to know that she went in a natural manner.” 907F’s legacy as the “Queen of the Wolves” will continue to inspire awe and respect for the resilience and power of nature.
