Return of the wolf in NRW: New protective measures for pasture animals!

Return of the wolf in NRW: New protective measures for pasture animals!

In North Rhine-Westphalia, a wolf has settled, which results in far-reaching consequences for the region and its farms. Genetic evidence proves that a wolf female with the identifier GW4074F has been in Rureifel for at least six months, an area that includes parts of the Düren district and the Aachen city region. This information was provided by Ruhr24 . The female comes from the Belgian pack "Hohes Venn" and was probably born in 2023. In November 2024, the gene material of a wolf male, GW4073M, was also detected, which comes from the pack "Hohes Venn Süd".

The last evidence of both animals comes from November 2, when traces were discovered on an injured beef that had to be put to sleep later. It remains unclear whether there has already been a pair of formation between the female and the male. In order to counter the challenges of this return, new protective measures were decided in NRW. These include the construction of fences and other protective devices whose costs are covered by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

new protective measures in the Rureifel

The wolf's return brings with it both opportunities and challenges. While the preservation of biological diversity is promoted, grazing animals are exposed to new risks. Effective measures are essential to protect the pasture animals from the wolves. For this purpose, intensive discussions are currently being held in North Rhine -Westphalia for the possible nationwide promotion of protective devices for farmers and conservationists. This applies in particular to protective fences, which are intended to serve as a preventive measure to prevent wolves from being grazing as prey.

In addition, several wolf areas are already shown in NRW, including the Märkische Kreis and Schermbeck. Nevertheless, the situation remains tense. In November, a seriously injured wolf in Schermbeck, who may have been caught in an illegal trap. The increasing number of attacks on farm animals raises questions about pasture security. Statistics show that the number of wounded and killed animals from 40 in 2006 has grown to around 4,366 animals in 1,135 attacks in 2022.

legal framework and support

The wolf is particularly protected in Germany, which puts any attempts at catch or killing. The Bern Convention, the EU Flora-Fauna Habitat Directive and the Federal Nature Conservation Act regulate the protection of wolves in Germany. However, a change to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, which came into force on March 13, 2020, allows the relieved removal of so -called "problematic" wolves if there is a serious threat to grazing animals. In such cases, livestock holders can apply for shooting permits.

Current information and support for Weidetierhaler are now provided in various ways. Among other things, the NRW Chamber of Agriculture offers advice on herd protection measures. In addition, cattle holders in wolf areas can make funding applications for prevention measures. The recommended measures include herd protection dogs, electrical fences and wild gate fence. The latter measures are particularly important to ensure the safety of the pasture animals and minimize their losses.