Iberian wolf populations show stability in Spain but decline in Portugal

Recent census data reveals diverging population trends for the Iberian wolf across the Iberian Peninsula. In Spain, the species shows signs of stability and moderate expansion. The Spanish national census for 2021-2024 recorded 333 breeding packs, representing a 12% increase from the 297 packs identified in the 2012-2014 period. The Ministry for the Ecological Transition reports that populations in historical regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and Castilla y León have stabilized.

In contrast, the situation in Portugal presents a more challenging outlook. According to the Portuguese National Wolf Census for 2019-2021, the population is estimated at approximately 300 individuals across 58 packs, with 51 located north of the Douro River. Data indicates a reduction in the species' distribution area and an unfavorable population trend within Portugal.