On Thursday, December 11, two visitors to the Dwingelderveld were approached very closely by a wolf. The wolf displayed jumping and snapping behavior and stayed close to people. This is concerning behavior and a problematic situation. We have no reports that this wolf has bitten people or shown other aggressive behavior.
A wolf that approaches people so closely is a potential problem wolf. Therefore, we are working together with Staatsbosbeheer, Natuurmonumenten, the municipality of Westerveld, the municipality of de Wolden, the Fauna Management Unit Drenthe, and experts from other organizations on measures to safely enter the area.
We are immediately focusing on better monitoring the movements of this wolf. We do this with extra deployment of forest rangers, supervisors, and wildlife cameras. Reports from visitors via the Wolf Reporting Point (links to another website) who see this wolf or other wolves also help.
When we have a better picture, we can take more effective measures. As part of scientific research, we try to sedate and tag the wolf. The province is preparing to make the wolf shy using a paintball gun.
Advice for visiting the Dwingelderveld
It takes time to change the behavior of this wolf. We therefore urge visitors to the area to be vigilant in the meantime. We still advise not to bring dogs to the Dwingelderveld.
In addition, we would like to give the following advice for peoples safety.
- Keep children in sight and within reach of an adult;
- Go in groups and stay on the paths;
- Be extra alert when running, horseback riding, or mountain biking. These can trigger wolves chase instinct;
- Avoid unexpected situations that may scare wolves, such as hide and seek.
Seen a wolf? Heres what you can do
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Stay calm and keep your distance, preferably at least 100 meters;
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If a wolf comes too close, slowly move away, speak loudly, and make gestures;
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Stay on permitted paths and roads;
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Do not feed or lure wolves and do not chase wolves.
Report it as soon as possible to the Wolf Reporting Point (links to another website) if you have seen a wolf or signs of a wolf.
