A wolf has been spotted regularly in wooded areas in Midden-Drenthe in recent months, a sign that the animal likely sees the region as part of its territory.
The Leeuwarder Courant writes that, according to the Forestry Commission, if a wolf remains in a particular area for more than six months, it is considered part of its territory. The wolf’s continued presence in the north may be an indication that it means to stay in the region.
Several cameras have been set up in the forests in Drenthe to keep closer track of wolves in the region. Aaldrik Pot, a wolf expert, says that territorial markings such as droppings are the only sure fire way to confirm whether the sightings are all the same animal or multiple different wolves.
Wolf verblijft al langere tijd in Midden-Drenthe. https://t.co/3El1lL8hIt pic.twitter.com/fTaB2aH6te
— staatsbosbeheer (@staatsbosbeheer) May 22, 2018
Wolves have been seen periodically in Groningen over the years after crossing the German border, and the animal’s presence in Friesland for the first time in two centuries was confirmed last week.
“Wolves primarily prey on medium-sized hooved animals, such as roe deer, wild boars and young red deer”, a spokesperson says. “Large prey is too risky for wolves. One kick from a horse could be deadly to a wolf. Wolves may also hunt livestock, particularly sheep.”
Dagblad van het Noorden reported that at least 30 sheep were killed across the north by a wolf this year. Potential compensation for farmers whose flocks were impacted will be handled by the Faunafonds.
Photo source: Staatsbosbeheer
