Every reign, no matter how remarkable, ultimately comes to an end. Yellowstone National Park’s beloved “Queen of the Wolves” has passed away at the age of 11 after succumbing to injuries sustained in a fight.
Known as Wolf 907F, this one-eyed gray wolf was a symbol of conservation efforts in the expansive park, living well beyond the average life expectancy for her species in the wild. According to Smithsonian Magazine, 907F was one of only six gray wolves known to have lived past the age of 11 since their reintroduction to Yellowstone in 1995. As the matriarch of the Junction Butte pack, she gave birth to 10 litters, with the most recent pups born in May 2024. While the exact number of surviving offspring remains unknown, she is considered the most successful breeding wolf in Yellowstone’s history.
Throughout her life in the park, 907F faced and overcame various challenges. From losing her left eye to an unknown injury at the age of 4, to battling mange and developing a limp, she remained a revered figure within her pack. 907F was also known for her unique, low-pitched howl that distinguished her from other gray wolves.
Described as having a “flat, monotone howl,” 907F’s distinct vocalizations amused wildlife enthusiasts like Jeff Reed, who shared his observations with Cowboy State Daily. Reed noted, “I always thought that she was saying, ‘That’s because I’m so old, I don’t give a shit. I’m just going to give this monotone howl.’”
Tragically, on December 22, 907F and some of her pups were attacked by members of the Rescue Creek pack while feeding on a bison carcass near the Yellowstone River. Despite surviving the initial confrontation, her radio collar indicated that she eventually succumbed to her injuries on December 25.
Taylor Rabe, a biological science technician with the Yellowstone Wolf, Cougar and Elk Project, expressed sadness over the loss but found solace in the fact that 907F passed away naturally rather than due to human intervention. Rabe remarked, “It gives us peace to know that she went in a natural manner. She was a cool wolf.”
