Coexistence with the grey wolf in Czechia – challenges faced by the Nature Conservation Agency

Originally there was strong opposition, with no willingness to explore better protection methods for farm animals. Opponents claim wolves were purposely introduced by nature conservationists from captive-bred populations or foreign countries. Before the wolf’s return, farmers did not implement any special protective measures such as animal monitoring, or night-time enclosures. Hunters could manage deer and roe deer populations without competition, but now they see the wolf as a competitor.

Dialogue with farmers was essential but challenging. We sought examples from countries with more experience. Constructive discussions required trust and credibility, which were difficult to establish. Communicating the wolf’s ecological role as a top predator was a struggle, leading to broad discomfort for all involved. More resources, knowledge, and experience were needed.

We started with a project funded by Interreg together with the OWAD The Wolf Project (https://owad.fzp.czu.cz/en). Current wolf monitoring is done with collaboration with the NGO, Friends of the Earth – Large Carnivore. Our focus was to gather extensive information on wolves, including their biology, territorial behaviour, prey, and effective preventive measures. We also studied best practices from other areas, such as Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony, and Slovenia.

We created the website (www.navratvlku.cz) to inform various stakeholders. We conducted seminars, meetings, and training on communication and conflict resolution. A national Wolf Management Plan was developed and extensively discussed with opponents. Key measures include economic support for farmers to encourage better protection of their livestock.

We collaborated with academia (universities and research institutes), NGOs focused on large carnivore conservation and monitoring, breeders’ and farmers’ unions, the hunters’ union, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, and National Park Administrations.

Farmers receive three types of economic support: state-funded compensation for livestock losses, subsidies from the Operational Programme Environment for improved fencing (mainly electric and portable), guarding dogs (EU-funded), and compensation for the additional farming challenges caused by wolf presence and livestock protection requirements. Our website is a well-known and trusted information source. While media coverage varies, some outlets are beginning to consider our arguments.

Misunderstanding of wolves, misinterpretation of livestock attacks, and a complex subsidy approval process made progress difficult. Repeated negotiations, persistent negative attitudes, false arguments, and unfair dialogue added to the challenge. The media often worsened the situation, fuelling fear and reinforcing negative perceptions rather than supporting factual discussion.

Effective communication is key. Farmers need to see that we understand the issue, can provide real help, and offer both financial and moral support. Cooperation must be built step by step, with visible and tangible actions. While not all opponents will collaborate, dialogue remains important. A few successful examples can be highly impactful, inspiring others and gradually shifting perspectives.