France: gray wolf population is growing, but at a slower pace
There are now 624 adult gray wolves in France in 2021. That is 44 more than last year.
Wikimedia / Karen Abeyasekere, US Air Force
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The gray wolf population is increasing, according to a study published this Friday, July 9 by the French Office for Biodiversity.
This species of canidae reappeared in France in 1992 and is monitored under the National Wolf Plan.
In 2021, the number of gray wolves increased significantly, but less than in other years.
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There are now 624 adult gray wolves in France in 2021. That is 44 more than last year.
The French Biodiversity Office has also observed the formation of seven new packs in the Alps, the area where most of the gray wolf population is concentrated.
This 7% increase is therefore good news for this species protected by the National Wolf Plan.
But it is less consistent than the other years.
In 2020, the workforce had increased by 9% and even more in previous years.
Still poaching
The Biodiversity Office sees several causes: first and foremost the shootings.
Official shootings take place every year to protect the herds, but poaching also helps to reduce the population.
Another explanation: the death of some wolves due to illnesses or collisions with cars.
Nothing alarming at the moment, but wolf protection associations are calling for better cohabitation with these canines.
Including using non-lethal means to protect livestock.
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France
Environment
Wildlife