Idaho wolf hunt continues on private lands

Missoula, Mont. (AP) – Idaho's wolf hunting season ended Sunday, but the hunt continues on private lands in the northern panhandle region.

Idaho Fish and Game spokesman Niels Nokkentved says anyone wanting to hunt wolves in the summer must have landowner permission.

In the 2011-2012 season, hunters shot 255 wolves and trapped 124 others. Biologists estimate Idaho had 746 wolves at the end of 2011.

Fish and Game Commissioner Tony McDermott tells the Missoulian that wolves are getting close to populated areas such as Coeur d'Alene.

The next wolf season on public lands begins Aug. 30, with wolf trapping beginning Nov. 15 in six regions.

In Montana, wildlife regulators are expected to set the dates and regulations for this year's hunt at its July 12 meeting.