Gray wolves are keystone predators recovering across parts of North America and Europe. Managing the conflict between wolf conservation and livestock farming is one of the most contested wildlife welfare challenges.
Wolf welfare exists at the intersection of predator conservation and livestock protection. Wolves that successfully depredate livestock are frequently killed — often legally through lethal control programs, and illegally through poaching. Animals dying from poisoning, snares, or gunshot may suffer significantly before death. Conflict prevention through non-lethal measures is demonstrably effective and represents the welfare-optimal approach for both wolves and livestock. However, implementation requires investment in farmer support, guardian dog programs, and compensation schemes that many jurisdictions inadequately fund. Wolf reintroduction programs must include robust coexistence infrastructure to prevent the cycle of depredation followed by retaliatory killing. The Yellowstone wolf reintroduction remains the most studied example of successful coexistence management.