Wolves back in Bavaria: Farmers rely on herd protection measures!

Wolves back in Bavaria: Farmers rely on herd protection measures!

Wolves, which were considered extinct in parts of Central Europe for many years, have re-established themselves thanks to intensive species protection measures. This poses new challenges for agriculture, particularly in relation to the protection of grazing animals such as sheep and cattle. A research team from University of Göttingen, the Humboldt University of Berlin, the Technical University of Dresden and the KORA Foundation examined the willingness of animal owners to implement herd protection measures.

The study, published in the journal “People and Nature”, is based on an online survey conducted in 2022 among 353 farmers in Bavaria. The “theory of planned behavior” was used, which states that the willingness to change behavior depends on personal attitudes, social pressure and the feeling of control.

Social influences and financial support

A central finding of the study is that the social environment has the greatest influence on the willingness of livestock owners to take herd protection measures. In particular, the focus is on installing wolf-repellent fences. Financial support is seen as beneficial by animal owners in order to purchase such fencing systems. These measures are particularly encouraged in certain zones in Bavaria.

The survey also found that livestock owners whose grazing animals are in wolf areas are more willing to put up fences. This finding is consistent with the goals of the Landscape management policy, which was published by the Ministry for the Environment, Climate and Energy Sector of Baden-Württemberg. This directive promotes, among other things, preventive measures against wolf attacks and offers compensation for damage suffered.

Herd protection measures in Germany

Wolf management in Germany is a success story in species protection. Wolves enjoy strict protection status both nationally and internationally. The Wolf management page explains that protecting grazing animals from attacks by wolves is a central component. This is achieved by supporting livestock farmers and using proven livestock protection methods.

Pasture animal husbandry operators can benefit from various support measures to ensure the safety of their animals. This includes investments in wolf-repellent fences, compensation payments for killed or injured grazing animals and support in the use of certified livestock guard dogs. Such donations aim to find sustainable solutions and minimize conflicts between wolves and humans.

The willingness to implement such measures is essential to reconcile both the return of the wolf and the interests of farmers. In addition, it is important to address the public and fears in order to reduce prejudices. The investigations and funding programs are an important step towards a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals in our cultural landscape.