Spain allows wolf hunting: an unsustainable and unethical measure

Spain's Congress has allowed the hunting of wolves to commence north of the Duero River, reversing the Iberian wolf's protected status. This is a decision that directly threatens conservation efforts.

Supporters of this measure argue that killing wolves is necessary to control populations and prevent livestock attacks.

In regions such as Castilla y León, Asturias, and Cantabria, tensions between farmers and wolves have persisted for decades.

However, conservation experts and environmental organisations reject these claims, stating that the Iberian wolf plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

By naturally regulating herbivore populations, wolves help sustain healthy ecosystems.

There are proven non-lethal methods, such as improved livestock protection measures and coexistence strategies, that can significantly reduce conflicts without resorting to hunting.

The impact of sport hunting on wildlife

World Animal Protection condemns this decision, highlighting that it aligns with other harmful sport hunting practices seen globally.

• In South Africa, trophy hunting has been falsely promoted as a conservation tool, when in reality, it has led to the exploitation of captive-bred lions in inhumane conditions.
• In Argentina, the legalisation of puma and fox hunting in Santa Cruz has faced strong criticism for lacking scientific and ethical justification.

"Hunting wolves is neither ethical nor sustainable"

Eugenia Mora, Campaigns Manager at World Animal Protection, states:

The decision to allow the hunting of the Iberian wolf in Spain is a serious setback for wildlife conservation and animal welfare.

"This measure does not offer a sustainable or ethical solution to human-wildlife conflicts. We urge the Spanish government to engage in science-led, ethical, and sustainable decision-making.

"Hunting is not a long-term solution for coexistence or conservation, and the Iberian wolf is essential to maintaining biodiversity."

Call for an ethical and science-based approach

World Animal Protection calls on the Spanish government to immediately reconsider this measure and adopt coexistence-focused conservation strategies.

Spain must take a more responsible approach to wildlife protection, ensuring that Iberian wolves and their habitats are safeguarded for future generations.

Additionally, scientific research must guide all wildlife management decisions, ensuring that negative interactions are addressed with humane, effective alternatives.

Hunting should never be promoted as a sport or a source of economic gain, as this only fuels animal suffering and biodiversity loss.