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The wolf in Switzerland heats up people’s minds. While livestock breeders reacted with relief to the Federal Council’s decision last week, animal protection organizations expressed sharp criticism. We want to know what you think about it.
The wolf has spread significantly in Switzerland in recent years. As a result, the number of livestock animals killed has also increased: while there were 446 in 2019, the number of dead animals last year was 1,480.
Wolf protection in Switzerland will now be relaxed from December 1st. According to the adapted hunting regulations, wolves can be shot preventively in the future; in justified cases, entire packs can be shot. According to the Federal Council, at least twelve wolf packs must live in Switzerland; there are currently 32.
The canton of Graubünden, for example, has already responded with a request for proactive regulation. Among other things, four of the twelve packs living in the mountain canton are to be completely shot down. All four packs have already attacked livestock.
While livestock breeders can breathe a sigh of relief after the Federal Council’s decision, environmental and species protection organizations are criticizing and speaking of arbitrariness.
The editorial team at “dialog” has one for you Selection of items compiled about the wolf in Switzerland. They come from all linguistic regions of Switzerland and reflect the different perspectives on the topic.
For example, Maurizio Minoletti explains why he threw in the towel after seven years on the Alp. The losses caused by the wolf were too grueling. Others resort to vigilantism and kill wolves that threaten their animals themselves. Herd guard dogs are also used by farmers to protect their animals – which has met with unexpected resistance in the valley. And researchers are currently testing a collar that is supposed to keep wolves away from farm animals.
What is your opinion? Should wolves be shot preventively if they can pose a threat to livestock? Or should the predator be better protected and other measures used to protect farm animals?
Our editorial team, together with KI, takes on the translation work of both the articles from all language regions and the multilingual debate. You can easily take part in your national language or in English and discuss with people from all over Switzerland.
What is “dialogue”?
The new editorial offer aims to promote dialogue between the different regions of the country without language barriers. You can use this feedback link to share your criticism and comments with us so that we can improve our offering.