Wolf kills 100 sheep in Innlandet, Norway, sparking debate over hunting permit

This summer, a wolf is believed to have killed approximately 100 sheep across several municipalities in Innlandet, Norway. Although there have been worse incidents, this number is still significant, according to Ole Knut Steinset, the specialist in large predators for the Norwegian Environment Agency in Oppland.

DNA analysis of a wolf captured in Dalane, Rogaland, indicates that it is a female from Sweden, which has been active in Innlandet earlier this summer. She has been spotted seven times this year in Innlandet, with four of those confirmed by DNA samples. The sightings occurred in various locations, including Gausdal and Nord-Fron, before the wolf moved westward to Eigersund.

The analysis determined that this wolf is not considered to be genetically important. Øyvind Nesheim, the predator contact in Sør-Rogaland, noted that this might not impact the shooting permit currently granted for the wolf.

Local sheep farmer Torstein Omdal reports losing six sheep to the wolf, including three recently—one killed and two euthanized due to severe injuries. He expressed urgency in wanting the wolf removed promptly.

The wolf’s presence has sparked considerable debate, particularly after a shooting permit was issued. Some argue that sheep cannot roam freely in forests and mountains due to wolves, while others, like the agricultural minister, seek to remove wolves entirely from the region. Despite the ongoing discussions, the wolf remains at large in southern Rogaland but is expected to be located by hunters soon. The organization Actively Protecting Predators (ARV) has contested the legality of the hunting permit, claiming it violates both Norwegian and international conservation laws.

Wolves are considered critically endangered in Norway, with approximately 80 wolves reported in the country this winter.