IUCN wolf experts sharply criticize the Federal Council

Science-based regulation demanded

The wolf experts of the IUCN group are calling for a science-based regulation of the wolf population, based on healthy animals in stable packs with established territories.

They argue that hobby hunting of wolves leads to the break-up of packs and to more conflicts.

It was also emphasized that it is unproven and misleading that wolves develop greater wariness through culling. The expert group also criticizes the reduction of wolf packs to just 12, which falls far below the minimum for a healthy population of around 20 packs. Instead, Switzerland should allow itself more time to relearn how to coexist with wolves.

Predators at the top of the food chain

The group also emphasizes Switzerland’s responsibility as part of the territory of the Alpine wolf population and calls for cross-border regulation in consultation with neighboring countries. It highlights the important role of wolves as the largest predators at the top of the food chain in the ecosystem and their role in regulating wildlife populations.

Warning against loosening wolf protection

The expert group warns of the consequences of loosening wolf protection in Switzerland, which now permits the preventive shooting of wolves, including entire packs.

The Federal Council approved the amendment to the hunting ordinance at the beginning of November, and the revised federal law enters into force on 1 December. Wolf culls will be permitted until 31 January.

Dossier: Wolf in Switzerland: Facts, Politics and the Limits of Hunting

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