Environmental Groups Oppose Wolf Culling Quotas in Brandenburg

In Brandenburg, environmental organizations are firmly opposing the potential introduction of a quota for wolf culling. The nature conservation groups Nabu and BUND have issued a joint statement criticizing the state's agriculture ministry for disregarding scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of such measures.

According to Karl-Heinz Marschka, the deputy chairman of Nabu Brandenburg, implementing a culling quota could exacerbate existing problems by disrupting pack structures, which may lead to wolves preying more frequently on livestock out of necessity.

Conversely, the Brandenburg State Hunting Association advocates for a cap on the wolf population, seeking to establish a regulated hunting approach. The state's agriculture ministry is also contemplating stricter measures against wolves in response to incidents of livestock predation, including discussions about a possible culling quota aimed at reducing their population. However, no formal decision has yet been made in this regard, as the focus is currently on integrating the highly protected wolf into hunting legislation.

Brandenburg is noted for having the highest wolf population in Germany. In response to concerns from farmers, environmental groups are proposing legally sound methods for the selective removal of problematic wolves to protect livestock holders. The Society for the Protection of Wolves emphasizes the critical role of comprehensive herd protection, citing data indicating that 88 percent of livestock attacks in 2024 were linked to inadequately protected herds.

To enhance herd protection across the region, the groups are calling for adequate funding from both state and federal levels. The hunting association, on the other hand, aims to achieve regular hunting of wolves, a significant reduction in their numbers, the implementation of a permanent hunting season, and the establishment of a population limit for wolves in Brandenburg.

The discussion around wolf management in Brandenburg highlights the ongoing tension between conservation efforts and agricultural interests, as stakeholders seek a balanced approach to coexistence.