Stampede and Wolf Fears Mar Alpine Grazing Season in Bavaria
This summer, around 33,000 cattle, 1,900 dairy cows, 740 horses, 5,200 sheep, and 2,200 goats grazed on alpine pastures in Upper Bavaria and Allgäu. However, the season was marred by incidents, including a stampede caused by military exercises and suspected wolf encounters.
Military helicopter exercises over the Kami Alm pasture resulted in a stampede, sadly leading to the deaths of 15 cattle. This incident has raised concerns among herders, who demand that such exercises be avoided during the grazing season. They suggest higher altitudes if exercises must be conducted.
Water shortages, due to lack of snow and drought, posed another challenge. Rain in July provided relief, but snowfall in mid-July hindered grass growth in Allgäu. Herders also reported extremely nervous herds, with some animals breaking through fences and falling off cliffs. While there's no confirmed wolf sighting, herders suspect a wolf presence.
In Allgäu, around 29,000 young cattle, 2,500 dairy cows, and other livestock spent the summer on 703 alpine pastures. During a cattle drive in Wertach, animals were frightened, and one was injured, suggesting a possible wolf encounter.
The summer of 2025 in Upper Bavaria and Allgäu saw a mix of challenges and tragedies for livestock. Military exercises and suspected wolf encounters caused distress and losses. Herders call for careful consideration of their needs during the grazing season.
