A gray wolf has been seen in Los Angeles County for the first time in more than 100 years, wildlife officials confirmed in February 2026. The rare sighting is being described by scientists as an important sign of wildlife recovery in California.
The animal is a three-year-old female known as BEY03F. Researchers identified her through a GPS tracking collar, which allows scientists to monitor her movements across the state. She was located in mountainous land north of Santa Clarita.
Long Distance Travel
Officials said the wolf traveled more than 375 miles from Central California before reaching Los Angeles County.
Young wolves often leave their birth area to search for a mate and new territory, and experts believe BEY03F is following this natural pattern.
Such long journeys can be dangerous. Wolves must cross highways, farms, and developed areas where vehicle strikes and human activity pose serious risks.
Because of these dangers, wildlife scientists are closely tracking the wolf’s movements to better understand how wolves expand into new regions.
Historic Return
Gray wolves once lived throughout California, but hunting and habitat loss removed them from the state by the early 20th century.
The last known wild wolf in California was killed in 1924, leaving the species absent for decades.
Wolves began naturally returning to California in 2011, and small packs now live in parts of Northern California.
However, sightings in Southern California — especially in Los Angeles County — are extremely rare.
Environmental Importance
Scientists consider gray wolves a key species because they help keep ecosystems balanced by controlling prey populations such as deer.
Healthy predator populations can support stronger plant life, rivers, and other wildlife.
For this reason, conservation experts say the presence of even a single wolf can signal slow environmental recovery.
Ongoing Monitoring
Wildlife officials said they will continue monitoring BEY03F through her tracking collar.
They also urged the public to avoid approaching or feeding wild animals and to report confirmed sightings to authorities.
It is not yet known whether the wolf will remain in Los Angeles County or continue traveling in search of a mate and safe habitat.
Still, researchers say the sighting marks a historic moment for California wildlife — the return of a gray wolf to a region where the species has not been seen for a century.
