Overview
- The Baden-Württemberg higher administrative court in Mannheim suspended the shooting authorization via a Hängebeschluss, effective until a further decision and no later than February 16.
- An earlier ruling by the Stuttgart administrative court had allowed the cull, finding the killing was likely justified to protect against potential attacks on people.
- Authorities identified the animal as wolf GW2672 and cited repeated close approaches to people and dogs, as well as growing “wolf tourism,” as reasons for lethal removal.
- The ministry highlighted unusual behavior during the breeding season, while conservation group Naturschutzinitiative appealed, noting only four confirmed resident wolves in the state.
- The court has asked conservation groups to substantiate their complaint and the ministry to respond before it issues a final ruling.