“Europe’s wolf packs are racing up the political agenda as farmers seek to protect their flocks from the resurgent predators.
After being largely hunted to extinction across Western Europe, gray wolves are returning to their ancient haunts in rapidly increasing numbers. From the French Alps to the forests of Germany, these lean, keen-scented hunters are reigniting an ancient conflict between wolf and farmer.
… / … “I hope that no one doubts my boundless love for wildlife, and the fact that I rejoice at … the wolf returning to our territory,” Hulot said in a special video explaining his decision. “But on the other hand, who can ignore the psychological pressure and the dismay of shepherds, with thousands of sheep killed by wolves?” (Nicolas Hulot, Ecology Minister)