Alcateia Programme 2025-2035: Conserving the Iberian Wolf in Portugal
A new ten-year ICNF programme, established by despacho No. 1392/2025, aims to halt the decline of Iberian wolf packs in Portugal.
The Alcateia Programme 2025-2035, established by despacho No. 1392/2025 of 24 January by the Portuguese Government and ICNF, replaces the 2017 Wolf Conservation Action Plan, which failed to stabilise the species. The 2019-2021 census recorded 58 packs (56 confirmed, 2 probable), down from 63 in the previous census (51 confirmed, 12 probable), with growth in Peneda/Gerês but decline in Alvão/Padrela, Planalto Mirandês and southern Douro.
Key measures
- Habitat restoration and creation of ecological corridors between population clusters.
- Support for livestock farmers to prevent attacks and compensation for losses.
- Continuous monitoring, with a new census planned for 2030.
- Awareness campaigns for schools and rural communities.
- EUR 3.3 million allocated for 2025, with multi-year funding through 2035.
A mid-term evaluation is planned for 2030 to adjust the measures. The programme is considered an essential tool to halt the decline of the Iberian wolf and promote its sustainable coexistence with rural communities.