The return of gray wolves to California, after a century-long absence, has sparked concerns among ranchers despite low livestock losses. Currently, an estimated 50 to 70 wolves inhabit the state, primarily in the northeast, where they have occasionally preyed on cattle. While the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has documented only a small fraction of livestock losses attributed to wolves, ranchers fear that increasing wolf populations will lead to greater economic impacts. In response, California has established a compensation program to reimburse ranchers for confirmed losses and support nonlethal deterrents. However, ranchers argue that the funding is inadequate to address their concerns as wolf numbers rise. The situation illustrates the ongoing struggle to find a balance between wildlife conservation efforts and the economic realities faced by livestock producers in a state that has changed significantly since wolves were last present.