The EU Council has changed the status of the wolf from "strictly protected" to "protected", allowing member states more flexible management of wolf populations

<p>The amendment of the Habitats Directive by the Council of the European Union allows Member States to manage wolf populations more effectively. The decision, which aligns EU legislation with the Bern Convention, gives states greater flexibility but requires them to maintain an appropriate conservation status. Although the number of wolves in Europe has increased to more than 20 000, conflicts with human activities have intensified, especially in agricultural areas.