Judge says wolf hunts can continue; denies environmental groups' challenge

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The wolf hunts can continue in Idaho and Montana, a federal judge ruled today, denying requests by environmentalists and animal welfare groups to stop the hunts.

 But the Associated Press reports a ruling that is somewhat conflicted - U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy said that the federal government appeared to violate the Endangered Species Act by leaving Wyoming wolves under federal protection and making a decision based on political boundaries. That appears to violate the Endangered Species Act, he said. Leaving the window open a crack for environmentalists, he said that means enviros could win their bid to restore endangered species protection for wolves.

-- Rita Hibbard