Wald und Wildtiere: Wo stehen wir? (Essay)

Abstract

Forest and wildlife: the state of play (essay) Management of forest and wildlife in Switzerland is now generally evidence-based and on firm foundations, focused on species biology and no longer on hunting plans alone. In fact, improvement of wildlife habitat, protection, revitalisation and structuring of wildlife corridors, and protection of wildlife from disturbance are integral elements. As regards this last point, on the Swiss plateau, and here especially around towns and agglomerations, we must recognise considerable shortcomings, and be more proactive. Now that it has been possible to demonstrate the effect of the lynx on populations of roe deer and chamois, and indirectly on forest regeneration, we should examine or at least estimate the corresponding effect of the wolf or the bear. In the case of a resident wolf pack, this effect would not be negligible.