Wolf recovery creates complex welfare situations for wolves livestock and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Wolf recovery creates complex welfare situations. Recovering wolf populations face lethal management when they depredate livestock, creating a cycle where conservation success leads to welfare harm. The welfare of wolf packs disrupted by the death of key individuals cascades through pack social structure. Coexistence tools including livestock guardian dogs, range riders, and predator-proof corrals reduce conflict without lethal consequences for wolves.