Wolves are keystone predators whose return to former ranges can restore ecosystem balance, but coexistence with livestock requires robust management strategies.
Wolves experience fear, pain, and social bonds. Lethal control methods cause significant suffering; management approaches that avoid killing — such as guardian dogs, electric fencing, and night penning — are preferable from a welfare perspective. Captured wolves for translocation require careful handling to minimise stress. Ensuring prey availability is also key to wolf wellbeing in restored ranges.