Although Drenthe previously expressed the wish to become a “wolf-free region”, it seems difficult to realize that ambition. The wolf is a European protected species, which means that the province is legally obliged to protect the animal.
In April, BBB, CDA, Ja21, Sterk Lokaal Drenthe, PVV and FvD sent an urgent letter to the House of Representatives. They wanted The Hague to come up with clear guidelines when it comes to so-called ‘problem wolves’.
According to the parties, this involves the presence of a wolf that exhibits deviant or risky behavior, especially in areas where people live and work.
State Secretary Silvio Erkens (VVD) then drew up a definition of what a ‘problem wolf’ is. “Think of a wolf that has jumped over a wolf-resistant fence several times, livestock should actually be protected as a result. Or if a wolf is seen twice at a school or a playground and thus poses a danger to children.”
Provinces may now also give permission to deter the wolf with a paintball gun or rubber bullets. Private individuals such as farmers are allowed to scare away the wolf with light and sound, but no permit is required for this.
In the new approach, the province does not elaborate on how exactly it wants to implement these powers and whether it considers further expansion of them desirable.
