The Graubünden parliamentary vote has set the canton on a collision course with federal laws that protect wolves and only allow selective culling of problem animals.
In the past, hunters have been allowed to cull certain members of the Beverin wolf pack, which is responsible for attacking a growing number of sheep and cows in the region.
But the interventions have failed to change the pack’s behaviour and local politicians appear to have lost patience with the situation.
On Tuesday, the Graubünden parliament ignored appeals for restraint from the local government and passed a motion to kill the entire pack by 73 votes to 39.
It is unclear how the cantonal decision will be viewed by the federal authorities that have responsibility for conserving and controlling wolves across the country.
Wolves started returning to Switzerland in 1995 having been hunted to extinction in the late 19th century.
Today, some 20 packs with around 180 wolves live in Switzerland and along the Italian and French borders. Wildlife observers estimate that Switzerland will have 50 packs and a total of 350 wolves by 2025.
Living longer: What do you think about the longevity trend?
The longevity market is booming thanks in part to advances in the science of ageing. What do you think of the idea of significantly extending human lifespan?
In Switzerland more people are being referred to electrical therapies or psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Are there similar approaches where you live?
Swiss government backs down to industry outcry over energy security plans
This content was published on
Swiss electricity providers should no longer be obliged to fulfil strict liquidity and capital requirements to ensure energy security.
Switzerland sets aside more funds to protect religious minorities
This content was published on
Jewish and Muslim minorities as well as LGBTQ+ communities will temporarily receive increased state protection in Switzerland.
This content was published on
The Swiss are increasingly questioning traditional gender roles. Acceptance of same-sex parents has risen by 25 percentage points within ten years.
Swiss issue another green light to cull troublesome wolf pack
This content was published on
The Swiss authorities have granted a third canton permission to cull a problematic wolf pack responsible for attacks on sheep.
Mother of Switzerland’s first wolf pack is still alive
This content was published on
The female wolf that started the first pack in Switzerland since these animals returned is still alive and at least 12 years old.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.