Ensuring the ecological functions of the harvested grey wolf population in managed forests

European Union's Cohesion Policy Programme for 2021–2027, Activity 1.1.1.9 "Post-doctoral Research" of the Specific Objective 1.1.1 "Strengthening research and innovative capacities and introduction of advanced technologies in the common R&D system" of the  research application No 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/041

The grey wolf is an important and specially protected species in European countries. They are hunted in several countries, including Latvia. The conservation of species in a favourable status is determined by the Bern Convention and the Council of Europe's Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and Wild Fauna and Flora. Today, the survival of large predators largely depends on successful coexistence with humans. This is influenced by species management measures, human attitudes, appropriate legislation and the mitigation of conflicts related to predators. Hunting is the main cause of wolf mortality. Although the wolf population in Latvia is currently experiencing an increasing trend, it remains subject to relatively high hunting pressure. Damage caused to agriculture is a significant cause of wolf-human conflict, and this conflict is escalating not only in Latvia but also throughout Europe. Reducing damage caused to forestry is also becoming increasingly relevant, and research on the impact of predators on ungulate populations, and consequently, on forestry damage, is becoming increasingly important.

This Study aims to generate new knowledge about the functional significance of the increasing wolf population in Latvia's rural landscapes and managed forest ecosystems while simultaneously examining the ecological, economic, and social aspects of this situation.

Main activities of the Study:

1. Study of the status, demography, kinship and social structure of the wolf population;
2. Study of the status of the wolf population and the impact of wolf hunting on the distribution and extent of damage caused to livestock farming;
3. Study of the status of the wolf population, feeding habits and the impact of wolf hunting on ungulate populations and the distribution and extent of damage caused to forestry;
4. Determination of the kinship of the Latvian wolf population with the wolf populations of Lithuania and Estonia;
5. Analysis of the study's results on public attitudes towards large predators.

The Study's results are intended for application in forestry, wildlife research, and the management of wild animal populations, as well as agriculture. Knowledge, research methods and approaches from biology, ecology, wild animal management and human dimensions of wildlife management will be used to obtain valuable and applicable information for the mentioned sectors of the national economy about the problems, the causes and possible solutions of which are related to the status of the wolf population, its characteristic indicators and the intensity of wolf hunting and its impact on it. Solutions for reducing conflicts will be discussed, including improvements in livestock farming practices and potential changes to wolf population management.