The presence of a wolf known as „GW852m“ in the community of Forbach, located in the Rastatt district, has sparked controversy following a recent sheep attack. Despite being a repeat offender with multiple incidents of livestock predation in the past months, the wolf is not slated for removal. According to current regulations, the wolf can only be shot if it has breached adequate herd protection measures on two separate occasions in close temporal and spatial proximity.
The wolf, residing in the Murgtal region, has been linked to several sheep and goat killings in Forbach. Since establishing its territory in the Northern Black Forest in 2017, the wolf has been a recurring concern for local farmers. The latest incident in February reignited discussions about the possibility of culling the animal. However, stringent conditions must be met for such action to be taken, including the wolf being deemed a „problematic wolf“ and demonstrating a pattern of repeated attacks despite preventive measures.
The „Wolf Management Plan“ of the state also emphasizes the importance of exploring viable alternatives before resorting to lethal measures. This includes implementing wolf-resistant fencing and other protective measures to deter further attacks. In cases where a wolf repeatedly targets livestock and circumvents protective measures, authorized individuals may be permitted to eliminate the animal.
Despite ongoing debates and concerns surrounding the wolf’s behavior, conclusive evidence linking it to recent sheep killings remains inconclusive. Investigations by experts from the Forestry Research Institute and the Senckenberg Center for Wildlife Genetics are underway to determine the wolf’s involvement in the incidents.
Forbach falls within the Wolf Prevention Support Area of the Black Forest, where the government provides assistance to livestock owners for the installation and maintenance of fencing and guard dogs. This initiative aims to mitigate conflicts between wolves and domestic animals while promoting coexistence in shared habitats.
As the community grapples with the challenges posed by the presence of the wolf, stakeholders continue to explore strategies for managing human-wildlife interactions. The delicate balance between conservation efforts and safeguarding livelihoods remains a focal point in the ongoing discourse surrounding the wolf in Forbach.
