The wolf in the Netherlands

There are more and more wolves living in the Netherlands. They have mainly settled in the Veluwe, but wolves are also occasionally spotted in the Achterhoek. This is a cause for concern for some people. Others find it particularly interesting that the wolf has returned to the Netherlands. Wolves are shy animals, so they generally avoid people. However, they can be dangerous to livestock, such as sheep and (young) cattle. It is therefore important to protect livestock and intervene if necessary.

Protected species

The wolf is a protected species. The animal must therefore be left alone. The (possible) presence of a wolf raises various reactions and questions. The increasing number of animals killed by wolves is causing unrest and concern among livestock owners and residents. The province of Gelderland is working on a new policy with better preventive measures and damage management. In unsafe situations, such as attacks on well-protected livestock, the province wants to enable intervention and strive for a maximum number of wolves in Gelderland. 

Protecting sheep and goats

It is important for livestock farmers to take measures to protect their animals. This can be done by not leaving the animals outside at night or by surrounding them with electric fencing. There is a provincial regulation and a national regulation for sheep and goat farmers who have suffered damage caused by wolves.

Hiking in nature

It is still possible to walk or cycle in nature, because the chance of encountering a wolf is very small. If it does happen, it is important to keep your distance (and report the encounter to the organization Wolves in the Netherlands). In most cases, the wolf will leave on its own. If this is not the case, it helps to scare the animal away by making yourself look big, waving your arms, and making noise. A wolf will not readily engage in a fight with a dog. It will only do so if there is immediate danger.

You can use this link to report sightings of wolves or wolf tracks:Wolf reporting center (geowebonline.nl)

More information

There are several websites where you can find more information about wolves in the Netherlands:

• Bij12 is the organization responsible for implementing policy on behalf of the provinces. This includes handling damage caused by wolves.
• Wolves in the Netherlands in which various organizations work together to achieve conflict-free coexistence with wolves. You can use this website to report sightings of wolves or wolf tracks.
• The Wolf Working Groupfocuses on providing information, communication, and installing wolf-proof fencing.