Ilm County receives report of an unlawful wolf hunting incident

In the eastern German state of Thuringia, concerns about the protection and acceptance of large predators, particularly wolves and lynxes, have been raised by the Nature Conservation Union (NABU). NABU has reported a troubling trend, with two lynxes and two wolves falling victim to illegal hunting since the return of these species.

The lack of acceptance towards wolves and lynxes in Thuringia is a matter of concern for NABU, who accuse politics and opponents of these animals of repeatedly inciting hatred and hostility. However, NABU does not specify the perpetrators of the illegal hunting incidents.

A young male wolf was shot in the Ilm district, and the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research has confirmed this. The injured wolf was seen near Ilmenau two weeks ago. The Ministry of Environment confirmed that the wolf had to be euthanized due to the shooting.

The competence center for Wolf, Beaver, and Lynx has filed a criminal complaint with the Arnstadt-Ilmenau police station, and investigations for a violation of the Animal Protection Act have been initiated. The results of the genetic examination to determine the origin of the animal are still pending.

NABU also claims that there is insufficient implementation of herd protection measures, especially among private livestock holders in Thuringia. According to NABU's 2025 predation statistics, optimal herd protection was not present in almost 100% of the predation incidents on sheep and goats.

Shooting wolves is a criminal offense under the Federal Nature Conservation Act, with penalties that can include a high fine of up to 50,000 euros or imprisonment. Despite the criminal complaint and ongoing investigations, no new information about the progress of these cases has been provided.

A reward of 2000 euros has been offered for information leading to the perpetrator's capture, and appeals have been made to the public for anonymous tips to the police or conservation organizations. As of now, the specific individuals responsible for the illegal shooting of the wolf in Ilm district near Ilmenau have not been identified.

Up to 25 protected wolves have been confirmed in Thuringia, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the survival and protection of these animals in the region.