Wildlife

Wolf-Livestock Coexistence Strategies

Evidence-based approaches for reducing wolf-livestock conflict while supporting wolf recovery and farmer livelihoods.

Key Facts

Wolves were extinct in much of Europe and the US but are recovering
Livestock depredation causes economic hardship and fuels lethal control
Non-lethal deterrents can reduce attacks by 80% or more when properly implemented
Guardian animals, fladry, and livestock protection dogs are proven methods
Compensation schemes help farmers absorb unavoidable losses

Welfare Considerations

Wolves killed in retribution often suffer inhumane deaths through trapping, poisoning, or shooting. Livestock attacked by wolves experience significant fear and physical trauma. Effective coexistence strategies benefit both wolf welfare (by reducing persecution) and livestock welfare (by preventing attacks). The social disruption of wolf packs through lethal control can paradoxically increase livestock depredation.

What You Can Do

Support organizations promoting coexistence rather than lethal control
Advocate for fully funded compensation and prevention programs
Learn about livestock guardian dogs and share information with farming communities
Oppose ineffective lethal control programs that disrupt wolf pack structure
Support research into effective non-lethal deterrents