Wolf populations in Šumava region show growth and behavioral impact

A three-year study conducted by the Šumava and Bavarian Forest National Parks, in collaboration with the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, has provided detailed data on the wolf population in the Šumava region. Researchers identified at least 43 wolves within a 2,000-square-kilometer area during the 2024/2025 period, including 38 individuals organized into 11 territories and five solitary wolves. GPS tracking and camera traps revealed that wolves generally avoid human settlements and roads during the day.

The presence of wolves is also altering the behavior of their primary prey, red deer. Observations indicate that deer are moving less during the day, utilizing smaller home ranges, and staying in more open areas during daylight hours to avoid predation.

As the population expands from the Šumava mountains, wolves are increasingly appearing in surrounding regions like Strakonicko. Local authorities in Lhota pod Kůstrým reported a recent attack on sheep, suggesting that wolf packs may now be breeding locally rather than just passing through. This expansion has led to rising concerns among livestock farmers regarding potential conflicts and the need for financial compensation for damages.