Wolf Attack Claims 26 Sheep in Haute-Marne

In the rolling pastures of Bassoncourt, a quiet Sunday evening turned into a scene of devastation for a local shepherd. The tranquil commune, located near Sarrey in the Haute-Marne department, became the site of a violent encounter between livestock and wildlife.

As Monday morning broke, the farmer discovered a grim tally. The attack, which is believed to have been carried out by a wolf, left the flock significantly diminished. It represents a substantial financial and emotional blow to the agricultural operation in this rural region of France.

The attack took place in a specific parcel of land where 140 agneaux were grazing. Under the cover of darkness, a predator entered the enclosure, resulting in a chaotic and fatal event for the young sheep. By daylight, the extent of the predation became clear: 26 agneaux had been killed.

This type of incident creates immediate tension between conservation efforts and traditional farming practices. The location of the attack is detailed as follows:

• Location: Bassoncourt, near Sarrey
• Department: Haute-Marne
• Timing: Night of Sunday to Monday
• Flock Size: 140 agneaux

The loss of over 18% of the flock in a single night highlights the persistent challenges faced by shepherds in areas where wolf populations are present.

Responding to the report, the Office français de la biodiversité (OFB) mobilized a team to the site. The agency is responsible for managing wildlife and mediating conflicts between species and human activities. Their presence signaled the seriousness of the event and the need for a formal inquiry.

Upon arrival, the OFB agents performed two critical tasks. First, they documented the dégâts (damage) to understand the mechanics of the attack. Second, they took biological samples from the scene. These prélèvements are essential for confirming the species responsible for the attack, as visual evidence alone is often insufficient for official classification.

Haute-Marne, like many departments in France, sits at the intersection of agricultural heritage and evolving ecological policies. The return of the wolf to French territory has necessitated a complex adaptation for livestock owners. Farmers must balance the security of their herds with the reality of living alongside protected predators.

Incidents like the one in Bassoncourt serve as stark reminders of this reality. They often trigger discussions regarding:

• Compensation mechanisms for farmers
• Effectiveness of protective measures
• Monitoring of wolf packs
• Community dialogue on coexistence

The emotional toll on the shepherd cannot be understated. For a farmer, the loss of livestock is not merely a financial transaction; it represents months of care and the livelihood of the farm.

The investigation by the OFB is the first step in a longer process. Once the biological samples are analyzed, the results will officially confirm or refute the hypothesis of a wolf attack. This confirmation is required for administrative procedures that follow such events.

Depending on the findings, local authorities and the OFB will determine the necessary follow-up actions. This could range from increased surveillance of the area to the implementation of reinforced protection strategies for local livestock. The community of Bassoncourt will be watching closely as the investigation concludes.

The events in Bassoncourt underscore the fragile balance of the local ecosystem. A single night resulted in the loss of 26 agneaux, a significant event for the farmer involved.

The rapid response by the Office français de la biodiversité highlights the structured approach France takes to manage wildlife conflicts. As the investigation proceeds, the focus remains on understanding the specifics of the attack to better protect livestock in the future.