A wolf has attacked sheep nearly twenty times in a few months at a farm in Barneveld, Gelderland, as reported on September 22, 2025. Over sixty sheep were killed in various incidents, with DNA analysis confirming wolf GW4003m as the culprit in four cases. The province issued a shooting permit due to the wolf’s repeated attacks, prompting legal action from animal rights groups.
- Wolf GW4003m attacked sheep in Barneveld, Gelderland.
- Over sixty sheep were killed in multiple incidents.
- Court reviewed case on wolf culling legality.
- Provincial government seeks to classify wolf as problem.
- Wolf protection status recently changed in Europe.
- Experts highlight learning behavior of wolves.
The legal question revolves around whether wolves like GW4003m, which have learned to bypass protective fences, can be killed. A court will rule on this matter on October 2. Previously, permits were granted only in cases involving human attacks. The current situation involves livestock, raising concerns about the definition of a “problem wolf.”
Experts highlight that wolves can learn to overcome barriers, which may lead to increased attacks. “If wolves learn to overcome protective fences, you’ll see copycat behavior,” said biologist Maurice La Haye. Meanwhile, the province must justify its lack of alternative measures to protect livestock, as noted by the presiding judge.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the future of wolf management in the Netherlands remains uncertain.
