Return of Wolves to Pohorje Highlights the Importance of Coexistence and Public Awareness
A resident wolf pack has successfully re-established itself in the Pohorje Mountains, marking another important milestone for wolf conservation in Slovenia. Recent coverage by the Slovenian newspaper Večer highlighted both the return of wolves to the area and the efforts being made to support coexistence between people and large carnivores.
According to current monitoring results, the Pohorje pack consists of approximately 8–10 wolves. The population is monitored through field surveys and camera traps, providing valuable information on the pack's status and movements.
An important aspect of the wolves' return has been the proactive communication with local communities. Experts from the Slovenian Forest Service, together with large carnivore specialists working within the LIFE WILD WOLF and LIFE Varna paša projects, have organized outreach activities to inform residents about wolf ecology, behaviour, and practical coexistence measures.
As reported by Večer, local communities have responded with understanding to the presence of wolves. This demonstrates how timely communication, transparent information, and science-based guidance can help reduce fear and misconceptions while building public support for wildlife conservation.
Through LIFE WILD WOLF, the Slovenian Forest Service continues to strengthen public awareness, promote evidence-based management of wolf populations, and encourage coexistence between people and wolves across Slovenia.
📹 Watch a short video about wolves in Pohorje: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1493352162175271
📰 Read the Večer coverage (in Slovenian):