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More than 1,200 wolves currently roam Germany’s forests, and while some celebrate the success of conservation efforts, others focus on attacks on livestock or hikers. The wolf’s return has rekindled a primal fear and respect for the animal and has been reflected in stories, myths, and cultural figures. The ancient myth of Romulus and Remus, who were nursed by a benevolent she-wolf named Lupa, is one such tale. The giant wolf Fenrir in Norse mythology symbolizes the destruction of the gods and giants in “Ragnarok,” and Aesop’s fables often depict the wolf as an evil and scheming animal. Japanese Ainu people have revered wolves as gods such as Horkew Kamuy, and wolves in Red Riding Hood and werewolf folklore are often portrayed as the villain. However, the fear of wolves is unfounded as they are not dangerous to humans, and there has not been a single attack in Germany since their return almost 20 years ago.
