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Lithuanian livestock predation and wolf management
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2026-10-13 05:43 UTC → 2026-10-16 07:03 UTC ·
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Lithuanian livestock predation challenges and wolf management
Farmers in Lithuania, particularly within in the Telšiai district, are experiencing increased continue to face livestock losses due to rising wolf activity. Attacks have been reported in the Tryškiai, Žarėnai, and Varniai elderships, with on sheep, goats, and calves being the primary targets. Local officials noted that the frequency of these incidents increases are most frequent during autumn as young wolves begin hunting. Authorities face difficulties Vilma Lukoševičienė, head of the Rural Development Department at the Telšiai District Municipality, noted that incidents have been recorded in documenting these losses the Tryškiai, Žarėnai, and Varniai elderships. Documentation remains difficult because some farmers sometimes clear incident sites or dispose of carcasses before municipal commissions can arrive. To address mitigate these challenges, risks, the government is offering provides support through the 2023–2027 Strategic Plan for Agriculture and Rural Development. A fund of 1,149,946 euros has been allocated to help farmers purchase is available for protective equipment, such as electric fencing, with applications open until November 30. Regarding population management, Lithuania has set a hunting limit of 318 wolves for the 2025–2026 season, an increase from the previous year's quota of 307. Environmental Minister Ieva Andriulaitytė stated the limit is based on scientific data to maintain safe population boundaries. Research from the Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy estimates there are currently 82 to 85 wolf families in Lithuania, a decrease from the minimum of 91 families estimated in 2022–2023. While livestock damage costs have trended downward—with €144,789 paid out in 2025 compared to €290,570 in 2022—compensation remains a significant factor. Additionally, scientific studies suggest the increase in large predators has contributed to a fourfold decrease in medium-sized predators like foxes and martens.
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- 2026-10-16 07:03 UTC Lithuanian livestock predation and wolf management
- 2026-10-13 05:43 UTC Lithuanian livestock predation challenges
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