No pups born to Isle Royale wolves

Isle Royale wolves
In this Feb. 10, 2006, file photo provided by Michigan Technological University, a pack of gray wolves is shown on Isle Royale National Park in northern Michigan. A report obtained by AP shows the number of gray wolves at Isle Royale National Park is down to 16, the lowest number since the late 1990s, and there may be only one or two females left.
AP Photo/Michigan Technological University, John Vucetich

By JOHN FLESHER
AP Environmental Writer

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) -- Scientists say the gray wolves in Michigan's Isle Royale National Park are in growing danger of extinction and may have stopped reproducing.

A report summary given Monday to The Associated Press says scientists with Michigan Technological University saw no evidence that pups were born in the past year during their recent winter trip to the park. It's believed to be the first time since scientists began monitoring the wolves' reproduction in 1971 that no offspring were born.

The report also says only eight wolves remain on the island chain in Lake Superior. Just five years ago, there were 24.

Biologist John Vucetich says unless more pups are born, the wolves will die out in a few years.

The full report will be released publicly Tuesday.

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