By Emu-Felicitas Ostermann-Miyashita, Hannah Kirkland, Ann Eklund, Darragh Hare, Hugh A. H. Jansman, Christian Kiffner, John D.C. Linnell, Robin Rigg, Suzanne A. Stone, Sandra Uthes, Manuela von Arx, and Hannes J. König.

Read the full paper here.

The return of wolves (Canis lupus) to many European countries is a conservation success, but it also poses challenges, especially for livestock grazing systems. There are no simple solutions that support both livestock grazing systems and ensure persistence of wolf populations as local conditions of wolf populations, husbandry systems and legislations differ widely. To tackle this difficult problem, scientists from various disciplines and regions have come together to reflect on the current state of wolf-livestock interactions in Europe and to formulate specific recommendations for sustainable coexistence.

We found that involving stakeholders, particularly livestock farmers, in the research process is crucial. By working together in designing, implementing, and sharing research – such as testing how well different livestock protection measures and wolf management work – we can reframe livestock damage prevention as a joint societal challenge. This collaborative approach ensures that the solutions we develop are practical and based on the real-world experiences of those directly affected by wolves.   

It is essential that decisions are based on robust and transparent evidence. We recommend collecting and sharing data on wolves and grazing livestock across countries. Additionally, understanding the human dimension of grazing systems and wolf-livestock interactions requires input from the social sciences. By bringing together knowledge from different fields of study, we can better understand both the livestock grazing system and the wolf-livestock system, and use this understanding to guide effective policies.

As wolf populations continue to grow in Europe, policymakers at all levels must make decisions that protect both livestock grazing systems and wolf populations. We suggest that management be adaptable to changing conditions. Science can provide the necessary systems knowledge, while a constructive relationship between livestock farmers, scientists, and policy makers requires trust and a willingness to consider the needs and perspectives of all stakeholders involved.

In brief, our recommendations emphasize the importance of collaboration, evidence-based management, and interdisciplinary research to support sustainable coexistence between wolves and grazing livestock systems in Europe. By working together – across disciplines and with farmers, researchers, and governance authorities – we can develop integrated and holistic strategies that protect both wildlife and human interests in these shared landscapes.