An improved environment in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region has led to an increasing population of wild wolves and ever-growing threat to livestock.

More than 500 sheep and 100 cattle and horses have been devoured by wolves in Sailiketi Ranch in the region's Wusu city this year.

Frequent pack attacks have threatened the life of herdsmen and the development of animal husbandry in the area.

It is estimated that the total economic losses reached 550,000 yuan (US$80,000).

(China Daily November 7, 2008)