Image: VOLKER Weihbold
In February alone, a wolf was filmed at least three times in Upper Austria. As the OÖN reported, the wolf density is increasing – for a few weeks there has been a fourth pack near Upper Austria, in Lower Austria’s Harmanschlag. In the night of February 13, a wolf was even sighted in Leonding, near the city limits of Linz. As a rule, the wolf avoids humans – but every now and then it still happens that there is an encounter.
Wolves are cautious animals, their senses help them avoid humans. If the animal notices too late that people are nearby because of the wind conditions, it is possible that it first assesses the situation before withdrawing.”The calm demeanor does not match the expectation that the wolf would have to rush away immediately. He behaves completely normally “says Lucas Ende, species protection coordinator at the Nature Conservation Union.
How to behave properly
If an encounter occurs, it is important to observe the wolf calmly and not to approach the animal. It needs enough space to retreat. If you are uncomfortable, stand tall, speak loudly and forcefully, and clap your hands. The wolf usually retreats on its own. If not, continue to speak loudly and slowly walk backwards.
Wolves do not perceive people in cars as such. They see no threat in vehicles, which is why they don’t keep a special distance from them. So it can happen that the animals can be observed from close by from the car. However, like other wild animals, wolves should not be pursued with vehicles. Under no circumstances should you get out – it is best to drive on slowly or stop until the animals leave.
Even young wolves are curious
Puppies and young animals behave differently towards humans than adult animals. Out of curiosity, they allow smaller distances than older animals.”With young wild animals, whether wolf or deer, it is particularly important that you leave them alone and do not try to lure them in or even feed them “says end.
In principle, care should be taken not to leave any possible sources of food (such as waste, food leftovers and animal feed) near houses in the settlement area. Wolves and other animals should also never be deliberately fed.
Special attention for dogs
Special caution is required with dogs. Dogs should be leashed in a wolf area. If dog owners meet a wolf on a walk, it may be that the wolf is initially interested in the pet – he can see competitors, prey or even mating partners in dogs. The presence of humans usually causes the wolf to eventually turn away and move away.
If a wolf repeatedly and apparently voluntarily tolerates humans within 30 meters or approaches humans at this distance, this should be reported to the responsible district administration authority.
In this poster you will find an overview of the behavior tips:
Source: Nachrichten
