Wolves contribute positively to ecosystems despite negative reputation, says biologist

Wolves in Denmark have become a polarising topic, often portrayed as a threat in media and folklore, but they play a vital ecological role, according to biologist Lene Sanderhoff.

Recent images of a half-eaten pony and videos of wolves circling a couple in their driveway have fueled debate, with some calling for culling despite the species’ protected status under EU law. However, Sanderhoff argues that wolves are unfairly demonised and provide unique benefits to nature.

“We need to look back thousands of years to understand why wolves are so unpopular,” she explains. “When humans shifted to agriculture and livestock, wolves became a problem because we couldn’t build wolf-proof fences. They threatened both the economy and small farms.”

Cultural narratives—from the Bible’s “wolf in sheep’s clothing” to fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood—have reinforced the wolf’s image as a symbol of evil. But Sanderhoff rejects this portrayal: “No animal is inherently evil. Wolves don’t wake up thinking, ‘Today I’ll be a devil.’”

Ecological benefits

Sanderhoff highlights wolves’ positive impact on biodiversity. Their presence alters prey behaviour, such as deer, which overgraze areas when unthreatened. “When wolves are around, prey become more alert and move around, distributing grazing pressure more evenly,” she says. This creates a more dynamic landscape.

Wolves also support scavengers and insects by leaving carcasses. “Nothing goes to waste,” Sanderhoff notes. “Ravens, birds of prey, and many insects rely on carrion. Without large predators like wolves, these species struggle.”

She acknowledges that coexistence requires adaptation but argues it’s possible: “People in India live with tigers, and in Africa with lions. We can manage with wolves.”

The article was originally published by DR.