Wolves have been confirmed in Greece’s Peloponnese for the first time in nearly 100 years, according to environmental group Callisto.
Camera traps set on Mount Taygetus, near ancient Sparta, identified nine wolves – four adults and five pups – in November 2024. This is the first verified evidence of wolves in the region since the late 1930s.
The return is viewed as a positive development for biodiversity, but raises concerns about balancing wildlife conservation with human activities such as livestock farming.
Callisto intensified research efforts following reports of livestock predation in October, using cameras and tracking wolf footprints and droppings.
While wolves have been seen in other parts of mainland Greece, their reappearance in the Peloponnese marks a significant step in the species’ recovery.
Approximately 700 wolves are thought to inhabit Greece, primarily in remote, mountainous areas. However, dwindling natural prey has led to increased conflicts with farmers.
Wolves have also recently returned to Mount Parnitha, near Athens.
Source: Ekathimerini
