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Wolves were extinct in France in the early 20th century. They came back from Italy in the 80's and settled well in national parks in Southern French Alps, where they heavily preyed on abundant mouflons which numbers dwindled quickly. Convervationists and the Environment Ministry in France assess now the number of wolves in the country to average 300/400. Small packs are now strongly established in most eastern and central France, and individuals have been spotted as far as the Pyrenean mountains to the south-west, large forests in the Paris area, as well as in the Moselle region to the north east. They most probably thrive on roe deer and wild boar, however don't neglect from time to time feeding on cattle or slaughter large numbers of sheep.

Wolves are fully protected in France however because of farmers pressure some annual culling - but only by Government Agents, was authorized some years ago; last year's tag was of around 30/40.

Recently an important decision was made, authorizing farmers/shepherds to shot wolves seen wandering around their cattle/sheep.

I have no doubt that any sensible French hunter spotting a wolf while hunting other quarries would also make the right decision!

Louis

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"Everything that doesn't kill me makes me stronger"

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