The Iberian wolf subspecies survives in northern Spain and Portugal, with welfare challenges from illegal killing, road mortality and conflict with extensive livestock systems.
Iberian wolves face road mortality on the road networks that fragment their habitat corridor. Illegal poisoning and shooting remains documented in both countries. Calves and colts taken from extensive livestock operations drive conflict intensity, as traditional guardian dog and shepherd practices have been abandoned in many areas. The welfare of Iberian wolves depends on re-establishing traditional pastoral practices alongside modern compensation schemes.