On the occasion of the Metropolitan Council on December 21st, a motion was presented and voted on regarding this subject.
In France, new measures for managing wolves are expected to be announced in the spring. The state likely does not wish to exceed 500 wolves, a probable number by the end of winter.
The National Office for Hunting and Wildlife (ONCFS) reported a further increase in the wolf population in France, with a presence that is becoming more established around the Mediterranean and in the Alps. After an estimate of 430 individuals at the end of the last winter, it is probable that the next estimates, at the end of winter/beginning of spring 2019, will exceed the threshold of 500 — representing an annual growth of over 16%.
This figure of 500 was the target set by the government in its National Action Plan (NAP) on wolves and livestock activities, presented in December 2017 for the period 2018-2023.
The return of wolves is not well received by farmers
However, this report sets another range, between 2,500 and 5,000 individuals, which corresponds to a threshold of genetic viability: this is the level that would allow the wolf population “to adapt to future changes and thus ensure its long-term viability.” Is the French government eager to ensure such genetic viability for the French wolf?
12%, and a bit more
In terms of “withdrawal” of wolves, which occurs as an exception to the species’ protected status, France is already pushing the limits quite far. Following the NAP, two decrees published in February and September plan to authorize annual culls reaching up to 10% of the population. If these 10% are reached, the state can reauthorize defensive (simple and enhanced) culls up to 2%.
If these “10 + 2” % are reached — which has been the case since the end of November — the year can end with simple defensive culls, without any limit on numbers. Much to the dismay of environmental protection associations, including Ferus and the Association for the Protection of Wild Animals (Aspas), which announced in early December their intention to file a complaint against France with the European Commission.
What will become of the measures announced in the spring? Political maneuvers will emerge, and the story is not yet written.
