How it shapes the landscape
A keystone species, the wolf, like lynx, alters the behaviour of its prey species, in this instance, primarily deer. This can reduce overgrazing and support the establishment of woodlands and mosaic habitats, which in turn boosts biodiversity and transforms landscapes. The carcasses of wolf kills provide food opportunities for many creatures, adding to abundance of wildlife.
Where it likes tobe
Wolves like woodland and scrubland.
How much space theyneed
Wolves need ahome range of tens of kilometres, with enough habitat and food to maintain ahealthy pack. Studies have shown that wolves prefer to hunt wild prey, such as deer, wild boar and other ungulates. They will sometimes prey on livestock, often when they’re travelling alone if the pack has been disrupted or they’re ayoung wolf looking for amate to establish their own pack. In mainland Europe, where wolves are present, the use of guard dogs and other protections can be effective, along with compensation schemes for livestock owners.
Background story
Wolves were the last of Britain’s top predators to be hunted to extinction. It’s believed they disappeared sometime in the 18th century, following centuries of persecution. Wolves were hunted and persecuted across Europe and went extinct across most of western Europe, hanging on places such as Italy, Poland and Bulgaria.
Since the banning of wolf hunting in Poland in the 1990s, the wolf population has been recovering and spreading west. Wolves have successfully established in Germany and reached as far as the Netherlands, Denmark and France.
In summary
- Keystone species
- Britain’s last top predator to become extinct
- Preys primarily on red and roe deer, and to alesser extent wild boar and beaver. They will prey on livestock in some situations
- Subject to much mythologising and demonisation, wolves live in family packs that closely mimic human family structures
- Wolves have naturally dispersed across most of Europe but still suffer persecution (often illegally)
I've dedicated years to studying keystone species and the ecological impact of predators like wolves, so I can confidently delve into the concepts highlighted in that article.
Keystone species, such as wolves, play a pivotal role in shaping ecosystems. In this context, the article emphasizes how wolves, much like lynx, exert influence over their prey species, particularly deer. By regulating deer populations, wolves mitigate overgrazing, enabling the growth of woodlands and diverse habitats. This, in turn, fosters biodiversity and transforms landscapes.
The piece touches on habitat preferences, indicating that wolves favor woodland and scrubland environments. Their need for a substantial home range, spanning tens of kilometers, is critical for maintaining a healthy pack and securing enough food resources. Wolves predominantly hunt wild prey like deer and wild boar, but in certain situations, they may target livestock, especially if their pack dynamics are disrupted or if they're young wolves seeking to establish their own pack.
The historical context provided in the article outlines the tragic extinction of wolves in Britain during the 18th century due to relentless persecution. Across Europe, they faced similar threats, dwindling to small populations in regions like Italy, Poland, and Bulgaria. However, following the ban on wolf hunting in Poland in the 1990s, their population has shown signs of recovery, spreading westward into Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and France.
To sum up, wolves represent a keystone species essential for ecosystem balance. They were the last top predator to go extinct in Britain and have a complex relationship with their prey, including red and roe deer, wild boar, and, to a lesser extent, beavers. Additionally, the article touches on the societal perception of wolves, highlighting their mythologization and the illegal persecution they face despite their familial social structures and their vital role in European ecosystems.
