Mountain grazing is a traditional form of farming in alpine regions, where livestock graze on naturally overgrown, unfenced pastures. In Slovenia, over 200 mountain pastures were registered in 2022, with almost 16,000 animals living on them. Grazing contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and prevents the overgrowth of mountains. In Slovenia, wolves have survived historical persecution only in protected areas. Today, wolves are well protected in Slovenia and Europe. In 2006, 164 cases of damage were registered, in 2010 there were 535 cases of damage to livestock. In 2023, 215 cases of damage were reported, which means 745 animals killed in a single year, which is the main reason for conflicts between farmers and wolves. Appropriate protective measures against wolf predation are essential. The most effective measures include electric fences, grazing with shepherds and livestock guarding dogs. For this reason electric fences must be correctly installed and maintained. Both shepherds and livestock guarding dogs must be present with the livestock at all times. Additional animals such as donkeys and llamas can also make an effective contribution to protecting livestock if handled correctly. They react to predators with warnings and aggression, which is particularly effective against a single wolf attack. Detterent measures such as colored electric flags and scare devices that emit sound and light signals can also be temporarily effective. However, these protective measures are only effective in the short term, as wolves quickly become accustomed to them. Since it is often difficult to install permanent electric fences in mountainous terrain, as they are known for the lowlands, the protection of livestock by temporary electric fences is essential. The most effective approach is the simultaneous combination of different protection methods.
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