Abq BioPark Unveils New Facility for Endangered Mexican Gray Wolves

Significant Step in Conservation Efforts

The ABQ BioPark in Albuquerque has made a substantial advancement in wildlife conservation with the opening of a new 4.5-acre facility dedicated to the endangered Mexican gray wolf. On December 19, 2025, the facility welcomed its first nine wolves from partner programs, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to recover this species.

Facility Features and Purpose

This state-of-the-art facility is designed for breeding, rehabilitation, and pre-release care for these endangered animals. It features five pens equipped with native vegetation, dens, and pools, all aimed at mimicking the wolves’ natural habitat. The facility is structured to support low-stress environments, allowing the wolves to adapt before their reintroduction into the wild.

Community and Financial Support

Constructed at a cost of $4 million, the facility was primarily funded through a gross receipts tax approved by Albuquerque voters in 2016. Contributions from the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish further assisted in its development. This community investment emphasizes the local commitment to restoring the Mexican gray wolf population, a crucial keystone species in the region.

The Mexican Gray Wolf: A Species in Recovery

Once nearly extinct, the Mexican gray wolf is one of North America’s most endangered mammals. It has been listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act since 1976. As of 2025, approximately 250 individuals exist in the wild, primarily in Arizona and New Mexico. These wolves play a vital role in regulating local deer and elk populations, helping maintain ecological balance.

ABQ BioPark’s Ongoing Contributions

Over the years, ABQ BioPark has been a key player in Mexican gray wolf recovery efforts, successfully breeding over 79 pups and providing veterinary care for more than 40 injured wolves. The new facility enhances their capacity for breeding and rehabilitation, supporting both the AZA SAFE program and initiatives by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aimed at increasing genetic diversity within the wild population.

Looking Ahead

With the establishment of this facility, the BioPark aims to play a critical role in ensuring the survival of the Mexican gray wolf. As the program evolves, it hopes to contribute significantly to the growth of a thriving wild population, allowing future generations to hear the iconic howl of the Mexican gray wolf echo through the Southwest.