The last known native wolf in the UK was believed to have been killed in Scotland in the 17th century. As such, wolves became extinct in the UK. 

Since the 17th century, there have been no confirmed sightings or evidence of wild wolf populations in the country. 

However, it's worth noting that sometimes there are reports of large canids being mistaken for wolves or occasional escapees from captivity. These reports are usually investigated, but they have not led to the establishment of a resident wolf population in the UK.

Once widespread throughout Europe, including the British Isles, wolf populations have depleted over recent centuries and decades. From increasing human populations and forest clearings in favour of agriculture, wolves faced increased persecution. 

Besides becoming extinct in the UK, from the mid-twentieth century, only small, isolated populations endured in Western Europe and the remote mountainous regions of central and Eastern Europe.

However, most recently, there has been a remarkable resurgence of wolves in numerous countries, thanks to heightened environmental awareness, legal protection, and conservation efforts. 

Nevertheless, as wolf populations and territories expand, they are once again encountering conflicts with human activities. 

All European wolves are classified as belonging to the species Canis lupus, commonly known as the grey wolf. 

Among them, there are two recognised subspecies. The first is the Iberian wolf, scientifically known as Canis lupus signatus, found in Portugal and Spain. This slightly smaller wolf features a reddish coat and notable dark marks on its front legs, which inspired its Latin name "signatus" meaning "marked." 

The second subspecies is Canis lupus italicus, an average-sized wolf inhabiting regions in Italy, France, and Switzerland.

Wolves and Humans collaborate with communities to discover practical coexistence solutions with wolves and other large carnivores, thus promoting their long-term conservation. They focus on 3 key areas: 

(1) conservation & coexistence 

(2) research

(3) education

By partnering with local biologists and conservationists, W&H offers resources, education, and training to restore traditional methods of safeguarding livestock and preventing predator attacks. They monitor large carnivores to accurately assess their population sizes, as official estimates tend to be inflated. 

Additionally, they conduct research to understand the wider impact of these carnivores on the ecosystem in which it inhabits. These findings serve more accurate educational initiatives, debunking myths about wolves and other large carnivores in Europe. Often, W&H collaborates with educators to provide informative materials, lectures, and workshops for adults and children alike. They highlight the benefits of maintaining healthy ecosystems for human well-being.