A change in wolf protection
In 2024, there was a massive setback for wolf conservation across Europe. EU laws protecting wolves were weakened – they were downlisted from ‘strictly protected’ to ‘protected’ status under the Bern Convention.
This change has completely undermined conservation efforts just as wolf populations were finally recovering. Countries now have greater flexibility to issue cull permits and can kill wolves more freely across the whole of Europe.
European wolves have only recently been bouncing back after years of persecution. Their recovery was proving that coexistence between humans and wolves is genuinely possible. In countries like Germany, Italy, and Spain, the wolf’s return helped ecosystems recover and thrive.
When wolves return, forests begin to regenerate because deer populations are kept in check. Regulating boar and deer numbers also benefits farming – fewer damaged crops. Rivers flow better. Disease transmission decreases.
Wolves demonstrate their importance to ecosystem health. And most importantly? With proper management, humans and wolves were co-existing.
So what now?
Conservationists are continuing to put in the hard work.
Meet Leo – young wolf ambassador
Born Free young ambassador Leo has been campaigning for European wolf protection for years. His work focuses on educating people about the vital role wolves play and challenging the myths that fuel their persecution.
Leo says he’s never been afraid of wolves – he’s always been fascinated by them.
He understands that wolves aren’t the big bad wolves from fairy tales. They’re family animals who work cooperatively, care for their young, and live in ways that maintain ecological balance.
Watch Leo’s wolf video on his YouTube channel Leo’s Animal Planet – it’s brilliantly balanced and explores all the challenges wolves face in Europe, specifically France.
What Can People Do?
Learn and share accurate information
Become information detectives and understand what makes a source reliable so you can distinguish between misinformation and facts.
Support conservation organisations
Many organisations and charities are working to protect wolves worldwide, including UK-based charities invested in their future.
Follow young conservationists like Leo
You’re never too young to make a difference. Young conservationists’ work can inspire and empower you to feel confident that you can make change too. Start small. Every bit of change, every voice – it all counts.
Challenge misinformation
When you encounter strong opinions about species like wolves, stay curious, ask questions, and offer evidence-based facts. Be confident in your knowledge. Also know when to pick your battles – timing is everything.
Appreciate biodiversity
Recognise that every species has an important ecological role. Every creature counts.
Educate others
Find creative ways to share your knowledge about wolves, their behaviour, and ecological importance. Here are some brilliant examples of what young people are doing:
- Sisters Amy and Ella founded Kids Against Plastic – a charity doing beach clean-ups and so much more
- Eagle-eyed Jamie has a podcast where experts talk about their work. She’s also a talented photographer who enters competitions and shares her wild experiences
- Benjamin raises awareness through his beautiful art, sells it to raise money for charity, and does sponsored walks
- Leo uses his video channel to advocate for conservationists and animals. He’s also done fundraising walks, protests, and loads more
Advocate for Evidence-Based Wildlife Management
Support policies that prioritise conservation science and expert knowledge over wealthy influencers and their interests.
Your voice matters. You are a part of this planet.
Like Leo, you can be an advocate for wildlife too. Every person who learns the scientific truth about wolves and other species and shares accurate information can help change perceptions and protect these magnificent animals.
The future of wolves depends on the next generation of informed conservationists – that means you.
The effort to protect wolves isn’t just about one species. It’s about preserving the wild spaces and ecological balance that all species, including humans, depend on for a healthy planet.