A well-known white wolf is dead after it was found severely injured in Yellowstone National Park, and had to be put down. Park officials are looking for any information to help them determine what happened to the wolf.

According to park officials, the injured wolf was found by hikers near Gardiner, Montana, on April 11th. Park staff investigated, and it was decided the wolf was in shock and dying. “Staff on scene agreed the animal could not be saved due to the severity of its injuries. The decision was made to kill the animal and investigate the cause of the initial trauma,” said P.J. White, Chief of the Wildlife and Aquatic Resources Branch.

Officials say at this time, they don't know what caused the initial injuries. An investigation, which will include a necropsy, is underway. They'll provide more information when it's available.

The wolf was identified as the white female of the Canyon Pack, one of only three known white wolves in the park. Park officials say she was twelve years old, twice the average age for wolves in the park. She had a broad range,  from Hayden Valley to the Firehole River area to the northern part of the park. Park officials say these factors made the wolf was one of the most recognizable and sought after by visitors to view and photograph.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Yellowstone National Park Tip Line at 307-344-2132 or email Yell_LEO@nps.gov.

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