Dutch sheep farming faces wolf attacks and disease risks

The Dutch sheep farming sector is facing significant challenges due to predator attacks and increasing biosecurity risks. In the Overijssel and Gelderland regions, wolf attacks have caused substantial livestock losses. One farmer in Kamperveen reported losing approximately 100 sheep, while regional reports suggest up to 800 sheep deaths in the surrounding areas between May and August.

Beyond predator threats, veterinarians are warning of heightened disease risks linked to increased animal imports. In 2025, nearly 96,000 sheep entered the Netherlands, primarily for breeding or grazing. This influx increases the potential for introducing diseases such as chlamydia or blue tongue, which is already circulating in the UK, France, and Germany. Additionally, there is rising resistance to anthelmintics against the red worm, and concerns are growing regarding the shamondavirus, a virus transmitted by midges that may cause production declines and congenital defects in livestock.