Should wolves be reintroduced to the Highlands?
Calls to see wolves reintroduced to the Highlands to combat climate change have been questioned locally.
A study from the University of Leeds found many environmental benefits of reintroducing wolf packs to the Cairngorms, south-west, north-west and central Highlands.
Researchers suggest that the species could help expand natural woodlands by hunting red deer, which eat tree saplings before they can grow.
An overabundance of red deer has become a significant issue since the grey wolf was wiped out from the Highlands some 250 years ago.
With no natural predators to control their numbers, deer have had to be systematically hunted.
The scientists estimated a population of about 167 wolves could thrive in the Highlands.
A population of that size would be enough to control red deer numbers and regenerate forests naturally, resulting in savings of one million tonnes of greenhouse gases per year due to the new trees’ natural carbon capture.
This is five per cent of the national target for carbon removals from UK woodlands.
However, while the evidence for potential environmental impact is undeniable, wolves were wiped out from the Highlands for a reason.
While wolf packs do hunt deer, they also frequently kill livestock.
Alistair Gibson, former manager of Glenfinnan Estate, warned that farm animals would be put at great risk if wolves were to roam the Highlands again: "The wolves are clever, they will use fences as a trap.
Sign up to our daily Newsletter
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
You may also like
Re_Store ready to rock the catwalk
New home and Renovation
Sign up to our daily Newsletters
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
© 2025 Wyvex Media Limited.