Reports about wolves regularly refer to a ‘problem wolf’. For the protection of the wolf, it is important that we distinguish between a problem wolf and a problem situation. Below we explain what the differences are.
The difference between a problem situation and a problem wolf
The European Habitats Directive states that the wolf is a protected species in Europe. Firing is only allowed if it has been thoroughly established that there is no other satisfactory solution. In 2019 upheld by the European Court of Justice this directive when Finland gave permission to kill wolves.
Exemption decisions must clearly and precisely indicate the purpose served by this, and be based on scientific data, says the court. Just pointing out possible problems that the wolves can cause is not enough. The precautionary principle in the directive also prescribes that before consent is given, it must first be clear what the state of the population is and the consequences of killing specimens. If there is uncertainty about this, no exemption may be granted. This may only be deviated from in case of acute safety risks for humans.
In short: an exemption can only be applied for in the case of a ‘problem wolf’. There is only a big difference between a problem situation and a problem wolf. An analysis by the Mammal Association for the Flemish Agency for Nature & Forest describes how this is defined in six European countries (Poland, Italy, Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands).
Table 1 Dutch definitions of problem situation versus problem wolf (source: Interprovincial Wolf Plan 2019)