WHAT TO DO WHEN MEETING A WOLF?

The key is calmness and composure.

In recent years, wolves have been returning to our countryside and their population is gradually expanding. While for some this is welcome news about the return of wildlife, for others it may raise concerns and questions about how to behave if they encounter this beast. The aim of this article is to provide comprehensive information on how to behave in a situation where you encounter a wolf and to dispel any fears you may have.

The wolf is a wild beast, but unlike other large predators such as bears, lions, or pumas, it is rather shy towards humans. It prefers peace and solitude and generally avoids human settlements and tourist trails. The likelihood of encountering a wolf on a marked tourist trail is therefore relatively low.

However, it can happen, especially if you are walking in the forest off the marked trails, in areas with a higher density of wolf population. In such a situation, it is important not to panic and to keep a cool head. The right response can minimize the risk of any conflict.

 

So what is the correct procedure when encountering a wolf?

The most important thing is to give the wolf time and space to retreat. In most cases, it will retreat to a safe distance on its own. Young wolves may be curious, but even they can be easily scared away with a loud voice or noise.

 

 

Here are a few key principles:

1) Do not approach or chase the wolf: Respect its space and let it decide for itself how to behave. An aggressive approach could provoke the wolf to defend itself.

2) Never lure a wolf with food or feed it: Feeding a wolf is very dangerous and can cause it to lose its natural shyness and increase the likelihood that it will approach human dwellings in search of food.

3) If it does not move away, try to retreat calmly: Remain calm and slowly move away.

4) Back away, do not turn your back on it, do not run: Wolves have a strong hunting instinct and running away could provoke it to chase you. Backing away allows you to observe its reactions and respond if necessary.

5) If the wolf approaches you, continue to retreat and make noise (sing, clap, shout): The noise should deter the wolf. It is important to show it that you are not prey, but a potentially dangerous opponent.

 

Dogs and wolves – a risky combination

Special attention should be paid to situations where you have a dog with you. Keep it on a leash to be on the safe side. The wolf may perceive it as competition in the forest, and any confrontation would probably not end well for the dog. Therefore, it is always better to keep your dog under control to prevent a potential confrontation.

 

Reporting an encounter with a wolf

It is important to remember that every encounter with a wolf, regardless of how it occurred, must be reported to the relevant authorities. In the Krkonoše National Park (KRNAP), this is the KRNAP Administration. Reporting helps to monitor the wolf population, observe their behavior, and take any necessary measures to protect both wolves and humans.

 

Conclusion

Encounters with wolves in the wild are rare but possible. Remaining calm and following the above guidelines minimizes the risk of any conflict. Wolves are an important part of our ecosystem and deserve our respect and protection. Awareness and proper behavior are key to the harmonious coexistence of humans and wolves in our natural environment.

 

Source: Krkonoše National Park Administration | Wolves in the Krkonoše Mountains