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Wolf presence and management tensions in France

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2026-09-04 10:54 UTC → 2026-09-10 03:22 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In the Rhône department, authorities confirmed the presence of a wolf pack in the Pilat Massif and western Rhône region following an increase in livestock attacks during the summer. The discovery of pups suggests the species is establishing a permanent presence in the area. In response, Rhône Prefect Etienne Guyot authorized defense shootings by lieutenants of the louveterie to protect domestic herds, noting that while wolves are protected, lethal shots are permitted as a derogation during attacks. Broader tensions have emerged across France regarding wolf management and coexistence. In the Anjou region, rural communities have expressed concern over predated sheep and calves. ~~Meanwhile, in~~ In Haute-Marne, the organization ASPAS criticized the state for deploying a specialized mobile intervention brigade to cull wolves. Conservationists argue that culling contradicts successful local cohabitation models, pointing to data from July 2026 suggesting that state-funded deterrent fencing has been ~~effective~~ effective; in ~~preventing most predations.~~ that department, only three out of 29 recorded predations occurred on protected plots, often due to pre-existing fencing gaps. Disputes over the cause of livestock losses have intensified following a large-scale attack in the Vercors massif between August 30 and 31, 2026. A breeder reported that 64 sheep were killed or required euthanasia, with approximately 20 others missing. While the French Office for Biodiversity (OFB) issued a preliminary assessment suggesting the attack was likely caused by wolves, environmental organizations ASPAS and Frapna Drôme Nature Environnement have questioned this conclusion. They noted the unusual pattern of the attack and suggested that free-roaming sled dogs could be an alternative cause, calling for genetic analysis to reach a definitive identification.

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