A Kent animal park says it has been forced to euthanise its entire pack of wolves due to “severe aggression” among them.
Wildwood in Herne Common, near Herne Bay, says the drastic measure was taken as an “absolute last resort” due to escalating violence between the animals, leading to life-threatening injuries to some.
Wildwood near Herne Bay has been forced to put down its entire pack of wolves. Picture: Wildwood
The park had five European grey wolves, and recently closed the exhibit holding the animals.
The pack was made up of the dominant pair Nuna and Odin and their three male offspring, Minimus, Tiberius and Maximus, who were born at Wildwood in May 2018.
Three out of five of them had reportedly suffered serious injuries.
Bosses said the decision to put them down was made after taking extensive advice from experts.
It said: “There has been a severe escalation in aggressive behaviour within the Wildwood Kent wolf pack, resulting in multiple life-threatening injuries.
“Due to the volatility within the pack, our team has been unable to safely intervene or provide the level of veterinary care required.
“We are deeply saddened to share that, following this serious and rapid breakdown in pack dynamics, the decision was made to euthanise our wolf pack this morning.”
Wildwood near Herne Bay says aggression escalated among the wolf pack. Picture: Wildwood
They say detailed discussions between staff and veterinary professionals had taken place.
“Anyone familiar with Wildwood’s work will know that animal welfare is always our highest priority,” bosses added.
“Euthanasia is only ever considered as a last resort. Over a prolonged period, extensive efforts have been made to manage the pack, support individuals, and prevent escalation.
“However, the situation presented an ongoing and unacceptable risk to welfare, and we were no longer able to ensure the safety or quality of life of the animals within the group.”
Wildwood says it has been an “incredibly difficult moment” for staff, who have been left heartbroken.
The wolf pack at Wildwood has been put to sleep
The news has led to an outpouring of sadness from visitors.
Another wrote: “Devastated to see this. The wolves were so important and always my main reason to visit.
“Absolutely heartbreaking.”
Paul Whitfield, Wildwood Trust’s director general, says it is an incredibly difficult time for everyone at Wildwood:
“Our keepers care hugely about these animals and did everything they could to find a way forward.
Wildwood, near Herne Bay, says it is “heartbroken” after having to put down its pack of wolves. Picture: Wildwood
“Wolves are highly social animals that live within complex family structures, and when those dynamics break down, conflict and rejection can increase.
“In this case, it led to ongoing welfare concerns and an unacceptable risk of serious injury.
“Euthanasia is never taken lightly, but in responsible animal care it can sometimes be the most humane option when welfare can no longer be maintained.
“This decision was an absolute last resort, with the animals’ welfare as our priority. It’s incredibly difficult, but it was ultimately the right thing to do to prevent further suffering.”