| Controversial Wolf Hunt Underway in Sweden: Wolves Killed | |
|
For the first time in decades, a controversial wolf hunt is underway in Sweden. The Swedish Environment Protection Agency approved the limited cull of 27 wolves, or about 10 percent of the Swedish wolf population. In October, the Swedish parliament voted to limit the wolf population to 210 animals for the next five years. Nearly extinct decades ago, the wolf population in Sweden has grown over the years. But wolves have become increasingly unpopular in the country. The animals have reportedly attacked livestock and pets and sightings of wolves in cities and suburbs have also increased. Despite the fact wolves are listed as critically endangered in Sweden, authorities issued hunting permits allowing the slaughter of the wolves in regions where wolves have reproduced every year for the past three years. 10,000 to 12,000 hunters have registered to take part in the hunt, which began January 2 and runs through February 15, 2010, before mating season begins. All kills must be inspected by authorities within 24 hours. Hunters are allowed to keep the skins but must “hand over the rest of the body to the inspector” where it will be sent to the National Veterinary Institute. According to a December press release, the controversial measure was taken to increase acceptance of the large carnivore, control the population and “improve the genetic status of the Scandinavian wolf population.” The EPA believes cubs will survive even if its parent is killed during the cull. Ironically, when neighboring country Norway took part in a wolf cull in 2001, Sweden opposed the measure. To date, 23 wolves have been killed in the licensed hunt - 20 on Saturday and three on Sunday. Warning: Several disturbing photos of hunt. Source: GO media - Written by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway
Bookmark
Email this
Hits: 557 Comments
(1)
|
Subscribe to this comment's feed
Show/hide comments
