Wolf population growing in Norway

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Researchers say some 60 wolf pups have been born in Norway and Sweden so far this summer. Twelve wolf families or packs are now registered in the area, with many of them roaming the border.

Three of the wolf groups are based in Norway and six in Sweden, while three others cross back and forth over the border separating eastern Norway from western Sweden.

Mortality rates suggest that only about half the wolf pups born this year will survive, while others will replace mature animals that die. That puts the real growth in the wolf population at about 20 animals.

Stein Lier-Hansen of the state Directorate for Nature Management (Naturforvaltning) told Oslo newspaper Dagsavisen that about 15 to 20 wolves would need to be hunted every year to keep the wolf population at current levels.

A new hunt was authorized Monday in the area around Redalen in Hedmark, after ranchers blamed wolves for killing up to 30 sheep.

Aftenposten Interactive English Desk
Nina Berglund