Wolves (Canis lupus) returned naturally to Germany in 2000 and France in 1992, expanding from protected Italian populations. By 2026, Germany has over 200 packs and France over 100, but political conflict with livestock farming communities creates constant pressure for lethal control that affects wolf welfare directly.
Wolves killed under derogation permits in Germany and France die from shooting or trapping. Pups orphaned when adults are killed face starvation. Individual wolves repeatedly responsible for livestock depredation — often because livestock lacks protection — are selectively targeted, but bystander pack members are sometimes killed. Illegally poisoned wolves, a continuing problem despite protection, die slowly from rodenticides and strychnine. Livestock attacked by wolves suffer traumatic injuries — surviving animals require veterinary care for bite wounds, and fear responses after attacks can cause reduced milk production and stress-related illness.