A farmer in Riel spotted a wolf on Thursday. On the same day, a wolf probably attacked a sheep in Heukelom near Oisterwijk. But when will we know if it was actually a wolf that attacked the sheep and not a stray dog or fox?
The Wildlife Affairs Unit of BIJ12 keeps track of all reports of wolf damage on behalf of the province. If a sheep has been killed, a farmer can report it. On the basis of the report and the photos that are sent, BIJ12 determines whether more research is needed to assess whether it is really the work of a wolf.
DNA research
If so, BIJ12 will send an appraiser. He assesses the situation and takes DNA, among other things. It also looks at:
- the location,
- the way the sheep was killed,
- bite marks,
- paw prints, droppings or hair of the attacker.
The DNA is examined monthly. When it turns out that the attack is indeed the work of a wolf, the farmer receives a compensation.
wolf or dog
In 2021, the wolf struck about 24 times in Brabant. In the same year, Animal Ambulance Brabant Noord-Oost received 6 reports of an attack by stray dogs on sheep or a pony.
According to Johan Mees, nature conservation advisor at the province of Noord-Brabant, dog attacks are often not reported. As a result, there are no clear figures on the number of attacks by wolves or by stray dogs.
In 2022, about 40 damage reports have already been received at Bij12. It is not yet known whether it is due to a wolf or a stray dog or fox.
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