The Ministry of Environment estimates the number of bears living in Romania at 5000 to 6000 (as of 2021), with the majority of them residing in the Transylvanian counties of Mures, Harghita and Covasna.
In contrast, Germany has about 1800 -2100 wolves nationwide (as of 2022), while the number in Romania is about 10,000 (as of 2019). Nevertheless, no one here will think of shooting wolves.
It is remarkable that despite the higher wolf population in Romania, there is a differentiated approach to these animals. Here, emphasis is placed on maintaining the natural balance and ecological equilibrium.
This approach is reflected in the different views on the protection and conservation of endangered species. While in Germany the focus is often on management measures, in Romania the emphasis is on the protection of native wildlife.
These different perspectives show how culture, tradition, and respect for nature can influence approaches to wildlife management.
In Romania, the wolf is considered part of the natural ecosystem and appropriate protection measures are in place. These include monitoring the wolf population, promoting preventative measures to protect livestock, and raising public awareness of the value and importance of these fascinating predators.
It is to be hoped that the respectful treatment of wild animals as practiced in Romania will be taken as a model in other countries as well. This would help promote the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals and preserve biodiversity.