Wildwood Trust, an animal park in Herne Common near Herne Bay, Kent, has euthanised its entire pack of European grey wolves following a severe escalation of aggression that left multiple animals with life-threatening injuries.
The park described the decision as an 'absolute last resort' after violence within the pack reached critical levels. The wolf exhibit had been closed prior to the incident, with three of the five wolves sustaining serious injuries.
In a statement, Wildwood 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.'
Paul Whitfield, Wildwood Trust's director general, explained that wolves live within complex family structures, and when those dynamics break down, conflict can increase. '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,' he said.
The park noted that extensive efforts had been made over a prolonged period to manage the pack and prevent escalation, but the situation presented an ongoing and unacceptable risk to welfare. Staff are reportedly heartbroken, and visitors have expressed deep sadness over the loss of the wolves.
