Farmers in Norway seek wolf culling permit extension amid rising sheep fatalities

Farmers in Norway have requested the county governor to extend the permit for culling wolves but have faced rejection. Kåre Blålid, leader of Aust-Agder Sau og Geit, expressed concerns that a tragedy might be necessary before any action is taken, highlighting the dramatic situation and the fear of mass sheep killings.

In a warning to sheep farmers in the Vennesla, Iveland, and Evje regions, Blålid advised extra vigilance in the coming days due to the threat posed by wolves. Reports indicate that a wolf was captured on a wildlife camera near Røyknes in Vennesla, confirming its presence in the area.

Earlier this fall, several sheep were killed and injured by wolves while grazing in Åmli and Bygland, prompting the county governor to issue a culling permit for one wolf in the affected regions. This permit expired on September 24, yet the wolf remained unculled. The aftermath has left several farmers reporting missing sheep, with rising concerns over potential fatalities.

An examination of feces from the wolf indicated it was a male that had traveled from Sweden. However, there have been no reports of this particular wolf in Vennesla injuring or killing sheep yet.

Knut Berg, the assistant county governor, reiterated that culling permits can only be granted if wolves have proven to have harmed sheep. He acknowledged the frustration among farmers but emphasized that a culling permit cannot be issued absent recent evidence of wolf-related damage in the area.