The Environmental Board issued six special permits for wolf hunting in Soomaa National Park. One of the permits has already been used. Cattle farmers have been struggling with wolf attacks since the end of last year.
According to the Environmental Board, Soomaa National Park faces difficulties because much of it is flooded. Therefore, it is difficult to protect livestock using conventional methods. The Environmental Board will issue five more hunting permits if attacks continue.
A pack of 10–12 wolves lives in Soomaa. They primarily reside in the national park. Hunting in nearby areas may not help because the wrong individuals are being hunted. Currently, ambush hunting is used to hunt only the wolves that cause damage.
The Environmental Board allows compensation for predator attacks. However, it would be better if no attacks occurred at all. Under the new rules, the victim must pay a portion of the damages. For example, 10% for the first attack, 30% for the second, and 50% for the third. No compensation is paid for the fourth attack.
In 2024, the Environmental Board will pay more than €130,000 to 95 beekeepers and cattle farmers for preventive measures. This is the largest amount ever spent on preventive measures. The new system reduces abuse and motivates investment in protective measures.
To protect livestock, sturdy fences and gates are needed. It is also good to use electric fences and guard dogs. The easier it is for a wolf to kill livestock, the more likely it is to do so.