It is a protected species, but does not gather the sympathies of the Portuguese population. Canis Lupis signatus, scientific name, is one of the most misunderstood animals in our country.
The Iberian wolf populations continue to decline in our territory, although they are protected by law. According to a national survey, 1600 to 1700 of this species are still breading in our country. A decrease is attributed to several factors including the scarcity of its natural prey, some herbivores that had been progressively disappearing from our forests, due to pressure exerted on hunting these animals. The destruction of the natural habitat of these canids is another point to consider, due to human pressure, deforestation and fires, the canis lupus signatus disappeared, retreating to areas with greater forest density. But the reason that weighs even more in this equation is the persecution and poaching of these animals by people. Although the legal framework, providing for the creation of protected areas to avoid confrontation, particularly in the Natural Park of Montesinos and heavy fines in the event of slaughter, the fact is that the wolf is the scapegoat for generations of a series of ailments that are directly assigned, hence the fear and hatred.
Deeper in the villages of Portugal were counted legends and stories about this canid that embodies evil, "the powers of evil vicious animal, whose mere observation or hearing could lead to dire consequences such as paralysis of the body, spirit possession or obscure attraction hideous occult powers of the moon "as the study " the Iberian wolf in Portugal " reveals, directed by A.M. Nunes. Unfounded beliefs that led almost to the extermination of these specimens in our country, hence the need to dispel these misconceptions and preconceived ideas.
The Iberian wolf as a rule only lives in wolf packs with a maximum of five individuals in winter and ten in summer, an increased number due to pupies. Usually feeds on wild herbivores, deer, or wild boar that also wanders through the forest. They are nocturnal animals, a period in which they are most active. Unlike many of his counterparts are smaller, measuring 131 cm and weighing no more than 30 pounds. They are not dangerous to humans, usually avoiding any contact, due to the factors described above, the Iberian wolves prey on domestic animals as the result of the scarcity of their preferred prey. However, many of the cattle mutilations that occur in some rural areas, is caused by packs of hounds abandoned and erroneously attributed to wolves. Remember the man's best friend, your dog is a descendant of these wild animals. Therefore, more tolerance, please.
http://www.bragancanet.pt/patrimonio/faunalobo.htm
