Sweden began its annual wolf hunt on Thursday, allowing nearly 10% of the endangered species population to be killed, as conservationists raise concerns about the controversial policy.

By Shreya Dasgupta Sweden has started its 2025 wolf hunt, with an aim to kill 30 wolves between Jan. 2 and Feb. 15. By the end of Jan. 2, hunters had shot 10 wolves (Canis lupus), according to Sweden Herald.

The hunting of wolves will again be permitted in Sweden over the next few weeks in a bid to cull the predators' numbers in certain parts of the country. In the strictly controlled annual hunt, a total of 30 animals may be killed in five designated wolf territories by mid-February - six fewer than last year.

The Swedish government wants to reduce the country's wolf population by 50% - Activists point out that European wildlife protection regulations are being violated

In Sweden, the wolf hunting season has just begun, during which the culling of 30 wolves is planned. This decision is sparking protests from environmental organizations concerned about the future of the species.