Why the Iberian Wolf Is Endangered

The Iberian wolf is one of the most iconic species of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal). It plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. However, despite being listed as a protected species under the European Union’s Habitats Directive, it remains under serious threat of extinction. In this article, we will explore the distribution, main threats, and conservation measures affecting the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus).

Distribution of the Iberian Wolf in the Iberian Peninsula

The Iberian wolf is an ancient inhabitant of the Iberian Peninsula. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a direct ancestor of the domestic dog, but both share a common ancestor. As a top predator, it primarily inhabits the northwestern regions of Spain and Portugal, preying on deer, roe deer, wild boar, rabbits, hares, chickens, and other livestock. Thanks to its adaptability, its diet varies depending on the region. Wolves usually live in areas with low human density.

• Northern Castilla y León: Between 1,000 and 1,500 individuals, accounting for about half of Spain’s wolf population.

• Galicia: Between 500 and 700 wolves, roughly 35% of the total.

• Zamora Province (Muelas de los Caballeros area): Highest wolf density, with 5–7 wolves per 100 km².

• Southern regions (e.g., Sierra Morena in Jaén and Cuenca): Populations are fragmented and highly endangered.

In total, Spain is home to around 30% of Europe’s wolves, but national protection laws are inconsistent, leaving many populations vulnerable.

Why the Iberian Wolf Is Endangered – The Causes

The Iberian wolf is officially recognized as an endangered species. Its decline is linked to both historic persecution and modern conflicts with rural economies.

1. Conflict with agriculture and livestock farming
   Wolves prey on domestic animals, threatening rural communities that depend heavily on livestock. This often results in retaliatory actions such as poisoning, trapping, or shooting wolves.

2. Historic persecution
   As far back as 1816, laws encouraged wolf hunting, offering bounties for adults and pups. This practice continued well into the 20th century. By the early 1970s, wolves were still considered a “plague” in Spain, and professional wolf hunters (“lobero”) used traps to kill them. Although such practices are now illegal, wolf hunting remains legal in some regions if wolves are deemed a threat to humans or livestock.

3. Poisoning and illegal hunting
   These remain widespread in certain areas, severely weakening wolf populations.

4. Habitat loss and fragmentation
   Urban expansion, agriculture, infrastructure projects, and human activity reduce available habitats, isolating wolf groups and limiting genetic exchange.

Conservation Efforts to Protect the Iberian Wolf

Many conservation groups and political initiatives are fighting to secure stronger protections for the Iberian wolf. Efforts include:

• NGO campaigns: Organizations like ASCEL (Association for the Conservation and Study of the Wolf), WWF, Ecologistas en Acción, and Lobo Marley lobby for full legal protection.

• Parliamentary proposals: Spain’s Agriculture, Food, and Environment Committee has introduced motions urging national protection measures.

• Political initiatives: Parties such as Unidos Podemos–En Comú Podem have called for wolves north of the Duero River to be added to Spain’s list of specially protected species, and for southern populations to be classified as “endangered.”

• Public education: Naturalist Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente played a major role in changing public attitudes in the 20th century through his popular TV series El Hombre y la Tierra (Man and the Earth).

Conclusion

The Iberian wolf is not just a predator—it is a keystone species essential for ecological balance. By controlling populations of deer, wild boar, and other herbivores, wolves help prevent overgrazing and maintain healthy landscapes.

Yet, historic persecution, illegal hunting, poisoning, habitat loss, and conflicts with rural economies continue to push the species toward extinction. Protecting the Iberian wolf requires stronger laws, coexistence strategies, and ecological education that highlight its ecological importance.

Preserving the Iberian wolf means protecting the natural heritage of the Iberian Peninsula and ensuring the stability of ecosystems on which both wildlife and humans depend.

animal tags： iberian wolf