Denmark’s wolf population reaches at least 49 adults

A new count shows Denmark now has a minimum of 49 adult wolves, according to researchers at Aarhus University’s Natural History Museum and the National Centre for Environment and Energy.

The wolves inhabit 11 distinct territories, ranging from Løgumkloster in southern Jutland to Råbjerg in northern Jutland. The figure represents the “spring population”—the number of wolves present before new pups are born in early May. Last year, at least 45 pups were born in Denmark.

Senior researcher Kent Olsen, who led the survey, predicts the population could grow to at least 70 adults by next spring. The number of established wolf pairs has risen from seven to ten, increasing the likelihood of more litters.

However, Olsen notes that natural factors limit rapid expansion. “The population doesn’t explode because pup mortality is high, and there’s migration to and from other parts of Europe,” he said.