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DNA Tests Underway To Determine What Wolf-Like Animal Is

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DENTON, Mont. (AP) — A central Montana rancher shot a wolf-like animal after it was spotted in a pasture with livestock, but a closer look prompted state wildlife officials to take DNA samples to determine what type of animal it was.

montana mysterious wolf
Photo Credit: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via CBS News

Fish, Wildlife and Parks regional spokesman Bruce Auchly said the animal's front claws and canine teeth are too short and its ears are too tall in proportion to its skull for it to be a purebred wolf.

wolf-pen
(Photo Credit: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via CBS News)

The animal was shot on May 16 near Denton.

Wolf management specialist Ty Smucker says the animal could be a wolf-dog hybrid. The DNA tests haven't been returned.

wolf-paw
(Photo Credit: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via CBS News)

Warden Zach Norris says the rancher was within his rights to kill the animal because it was seen near livestock, domestic dogs and children.

wolf-truck
(Photo Credit: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks via CBS News)

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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