shooting
Poaching - An indecipherable reality
Since the introduction of proactive regulation and on the eve of the wolf's probable downgrading by the Bern Convention, it is vital to mention the causes of wolf mortality in Switzerland and Europe. Some of these are easily quantifiable, notably legal shooting and human-caused accidents (road and rail traffic), which are the two most important. But one unknown factor remains: the number of wolves poached, of which we know nothing most of the time. How is poaching carried out? What methods are used? How important will these cases be in assessing the number of wolves that can be harvested? How can we protect the wolf from a possible decline in numbers if “official” regulation is relaxed? Let's take a look at this thorny but vital issue for the future of the wolf.
The ABC's of wolf regulation - The effectiveness of protective measures
For over 28 years in Switzerland, the question of protection and its effectiveness has been at the center of debate. For some, it works; for others, it's totally ineffective. But how can we assess the effectiveness of official means of protection ? What are the factors that can affect the effectiveness of the protection ? Here are some explanations, in two parts, to help you better understand this eminently important and often misinterpreted subject.
The ABC's of wolf regulation - Proactive
We continue with the second part of our series of articles on wolf regulation. Let's talk about the brand new method of regulation, which came into force on December 1, 2023 in Switzerland under the new Ordinance, which is still in the "test" phase and will not officially come into force until February 2025. We explain what it consists of and the real effects on both : attacks on livestock and the wolf itself, the packs, the species etc.
The ABC's of wolf regulation - Reactive
In view of current events in Switzerland, we are forced to explain the possible consequences of shooting within the pack we are following, as well as the others concerned by proactive regulation. It is necessary to understand that two types of regulation are currently in place in Switzerland, due to the Ordinance in test phase: reactive and proactive. We take a look at these two methods and the effects that shooting could have over the coming months and potentially years.
Arsene's pack - Actual situation
In Switzerland, the wolf situation has just taken a turn for the worse, with the presentation of the new Ordinance in September 2023. Unfortunately, this new ordinance is not based on scientific hindsight or knowledge of the consequences of intra-species shooting, nor on the impact on livestock. It shows a very negative image of Swiss policy, which has sent shockwaves through the Swiss population and many official bodies and organizations, including in Europe and around the world. Our country, accustomed to setting an example in its management and pragmatism, has, thanks to a few politicians, given way to an undignified and shocking situation.