A total of 38 wolves were reported shot to death during last winter’s annual hunt. It’s the highest level since Norway’s state statistics bureau SSB (Statistics Norway) started keeping records in 1994-95.
News bureau NTB reports that of the 38 wolves killed, 21 were killed during licensed hunting, 12 were shot after they’d allegedly caused damage, three collided with vehicles and were shot afterwards and one was shot in an alleged case of self-defense. Another wolf died of other causes.
Conservationists have long argued vigorously to save Norway’s small and legally protected wolf population, while the Center Party and its consituency of farmers and landowners want to only allow the bare minimum of wolves in Norway. Specific levels are set every year as to how many wolves should be protected, leaving others at risk.
Other predators shot in Norway during the past year include 109 wolverines, 78 lynx and 13 bears.
newsinenglish.no staff