What happens to the wolf after the fatal shot? - Elusive Hornisgrinde wolf hunted by secret 'removal team' in high-stakes chase

A wolf in the Hornisgrinde region is being hunted by a specialised 'removal team' sent by the Ministry for the Environment. The operation resembles a Wild West manhunt, with trackers using advanced methods to locate the animal. Authorities have stressed that success is not guaranteed—previous attempts to capture elusive wolves have failed.

The team is targeting a specific male wolf, identified as 'GW2672m'. If captured or killed, its remains will be sent to the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research for scientific study. Samples will also go to the Senckenberg Centre for Wildlife Genetics to confirm its identity.

There is no plan to mount the wolf for display, despite suggestions from taxidermist Joseph Kälberer. He argued that the animal could serve as an educational tool, helping the public understand wolves better. Instead, the carcass will be used purely for research.

The Forest Research Institute of Baden-Württemberg will receive the remains if the correct wolf is found. If hunters accidentally kill the wrong animal, they will be permitted to continue their search. The team's identities remain secret to protect them from potential backlash.

Past efforts to remove wolves have struggled. In Lower Saxony, a wolf named 'Roddy' evaded capture for years despite an extensive manhunt. This case highlights the challenges faced by the current operation.

No wolves have been officially classified as 'problem animals' and killed in Baden-Württemberg since their return. The outcome of this hunt will determine whether the Hornisgrinde wolf is removed or remains at large. If successful, its remains will contribute to ongoing research rather than public display.