It's been more than a month since the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service missed its own deadline to release Asha – a beloved endangered Mexican gray wolf – and her cubs back into the wild. Experts warn that keeping Asha and her pups out of the wild will only accelerate the risk of their extinction. Every day these wolves spend in captivity is a day lost for the recovery of this iconic species.
Now, silence from the agency has sparked fears that political pressure, not science, is keeping them locked away.
Sign the petition to demand the immediate release of Asha and her family before it's too late for this fragile species!
Asha first captured hearts when she repeatedly crossed the invisible boundary north of Interstate 40 in search of new territory and a mate – vital behavior for the genetic health of her species. Instead of letting her roam, officials captured Asha and placed her in captivity.
In May, Asha gave birth to five pups at the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge. The wolf family was scheduled for release in June, but now their fate is uncertain. Experts say this is a serious threat to the survival of Mexican gray wolves, which have faced dire genetic challenges from decades of limited diversity and inbreeding.
Political meddling has no place in wildlife conservation. Science and urgency must guide the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's decisions. Wolves like Asha are meant to roam free, strengthening populations and restoring balance to their ecosystems – not trapped behind fences because of industry lobbying or outdated policies.
Sign the petition now to demand the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service release Asha and her family into the wild where they belong!
