Danish wolf fence subsidy fund overwhelmed by nearly double the requests

The Danish state fund for wolf-proof fencing has received applications for nearly twice its available budget, leaving many livestock owners in wolf-affected areas without financial support, DR reports.

The Agency for Green Transition and Water Environments received 502 applications totalling 69.5 million kroner in the latest round, but the fund only holds 38 million kroner. Livestock owners seek subsidies to install protective fencing after recent wolf attacks, including a case in Egtved, south of Vejle, where a wolf killed two ponies and later returned to the scene.

Neighbouring property owners in affected areas cannot currently access subsidies unless they have already experienced an attack, as the latest application window closed on 28 February.

Politicians propose solutions

Several political parties have responded to the funding shortfall with proposals for change.

Venstre calls for an increased budget and expanded eligibility, including neighbours of attack sites and owners of larger animals. Spokesperson Anni Matthiesen argued that rules must adapt to reality, citing recent pony attacks. The party also supports regulating wolf populations to reduce future costs but states it must wait for a relevant ministerial appointment.

Danmarksdemokraterne demands urgent action, with Kim Edberg Andersen criticising current policies for allowing wolves to lose their fear of humans and livestock. The party advocates for faster, large-scale wolf population control and full subsidy access for all applicants. “People living with politicians’ foolish decisions must be able to protect their animals,” Andersen stated.

Alternativet supports fully funding eligible applicants but first wants to investigate whether wolves actually target cattle, cows, and horses before extending subsidies. Ulveordfører Torsten Gejl noted that pony attacks are unprecedented and require further study.

Dansk Folkeparti prioritises establishing a wolf hunting season over increasing subsidies. Christian Kirk, the party’s animal welfare spokesperson, argued that reducing wolf numbers and restoring their natural fear of humans is the primary solution.

Liberal Alliance, Radikale Venstre, Enhedslisten, and Det Konservative Folkeparti declined to comment.

Wolves in Denmark are protected under an EU directive, restricting unilateral population control measures.