Sun May 11 14:09:51 UTC 2025: ## Free-Roaming Dogs Threaten Endangered Indian Grey Wolves in Maharashtra

**Pune, Maharashtra – May 11, 2025** – The Indian grey wolf population in the Kadbanwadi grassland of Pune district is facing a severe threat from packs of free-roaming dogs, according to a recent report. The wolf population, already dwindling due to habitat loss from agricultural expansion and urbanization, has plummeted from approximately 70 adult wolves in 2016 to just six in recent counts.

The dogs, descendants of domesticated animals, scavenge in villages and then hunt in packs of 5 to 50 across the grassland, posing multiple dangers to the wolves. These dangers include the transmission of diseases like canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine parvovirus, which have already caused wolf deaths. The dogs also pose a threat through direct attacks, particularly on younger, weaker, or isolated wolves, and through crossbreeding, leading to genetic dilution and unpredictable hybrid behavior.

Villagers report increased dog attacks on livestock, replacing the previously more common, but now infrequent, wolf attacks. While wolf attacks were once seen as a sign of good luck by some, the current situation is causing concern and impacting the livelihood of shepherds.

The Maharashtra Forest Department is aware of the problem and cites rules allowing the killing of trespassing animals that threaten wildlife. However, officials are hesitant to act, fearing backlash from animal rights activists. Vaccination efforts are proving difficult due to the dogs’ elusive nature.

Researchers, including a team documenting the wolves for a documentary titled “Ghost of the Deccan Grasslands,” are highlighting the crisis and calling for increased awareness and conservation efforts. The situation underscores a complex human-wildlife conflict, exacerbated by the growing population of free-ranging dogs and the need for innovative and humane solutions to protect the endangered Indian grey wolves. Experts also emphasize the need to address broader issues, such as habitat loss and changing shepherding practices, to ensure the long-term survival of this vulnerable species.

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