This project will continue the support provided to the metropolitan park district of tacoma zoological environmental education department s (zeed) red wolf program since 1973

Zeed s red wolf propagation facility can maintain up to 60 red wolves (adults, yearlings, and pups). Thats over 20% of the entire safe population. This large facility is fundamental to the safe program and the recovery program. The goal of this project is to maintain cooperation in the effort to preserve and maintain the existence of the endangered red wolf. Project objectives include: 1) maximizing genetic vigor of the species, to the extent possible, and grow the population toward the target population size identified in the existing red wolf recovery plan through selected pairing and breeding and 2)providing genetically, demographically, and behaviorally appropriate animals suitable for reintroduction into the wild. The work to be performed includes management and care of red wolves according to the regulations, guidelines, and procedures outlined in the most recent red wolf husbandry manual. This includes taking measure to limit exposure to human presence and activity to minimize habituation. Funding will be used to furnish the necessary personnel, materials, services, and facilities directly associated with captive management and propagation of red wolves. The work covered in this project will help achieve a priority one action outlined in the latest red wolf recovery plan, published in september 2023, and increase the chances of successful releases into the wild, which is foundational to recovery.