In recent decades, the gray wolf (Canis lupus) has experienced one of the most iconic wildlife returns in Europe and North America. This apex predator, largely exterminated from its historical habitat during the 20th century, is recolonizing territories thanks to conservation programs and legal protection. However, its return is not without controversy, pitting conservationists, ranchers, and authorities against each other in a complex debate about the coexistence of humans and wildlife.
Conservation Success: Figures That Speak
- Europe: The population has increased by 300% since 2000, with an estimated 18,000 individuals expected by 2025 (according to LCIE).
- Spain: 2,500 wolves (double the number in 2005), now present even in Madrid and Guadalajara.
- Germany: From 0 in 1990 to more than 200 packs by 2025.
- United States:
- Yellowstone: 108 wolves reintroduced in 1995 → 500 today, regenerating the entire ecosystem.
- California: First sighting in 100 years (2021); now with 3 stable packs.
Positive ecological impact:
- Natural control of herbivores (deer, wild boar), reducing damage to vegetation.
- Increased biodiversity: In Yellowstone, coyotes have declined, allowing the return of rodents and birds.
The Other Side of the Coin: Conflicts and Challenges
- Attacks on Livestock:
- In Spain, 300-500 attacks are reported annually (0.03% of total livestock).
- Innovative Solutions:
- Native breed guard dogs (Spanish Mastiff).
- Electric fences with motion sensors.
- Fast compensation for livestock farmers (the Basque Country pays within 72 hours).
- Social Division:
- Urban groups vs. rural communities: In Colorado (USA), the forced reintroduction by citizen vote in 2023 sparked livestock protests.
- Illegal hunting: Spain allows population controls, while France strictly protects its 600 wolves.
- Habitat Fragmentation:
- Roads and urban developments isolate populations, increasing inbreeding.
- Hopeful projects: Ecological corridors such as the “Green Wolf Belt” in the Carpathians.
Technologies for Coexistence
- GPS collars: Monitor packs and send alerts to livestock farmers (LIFE EuroLargeCarnivores project).
- Drones with thermal cameras: Detect wolves near herds in real time.
- Genetic analysis: Identify problematic individuals for relocation.
Success Stories
- Italy: Apennine wolves decreased from 100 to 3,300 in 50 years, thanks to environmental education.
- Mexico: First litter of Mexican gray wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) released into the wild after 30 years of captive breeding (2024).
What Does the Future Hold?
- By 2030, the EU plans to connect all wolf habitats through green infrastructure.
- New Challenges: Adaptation to climate change (Arctic wolves are especially vulnerable).
“The wolf is not the problem, but the test of our ability to share the planet” — Biologist David Mech.