The wolf in the Biggesee-Listersee Nature Discovery Area

How to behave correctly

Wolf packs are now living again in several federal states in Germany, including North Rhine-Westphalia, and there are also individual wolf sightings and wolf packs in the Biggesee-Listersee Nature Discovery Area.

What should you do if you encounter a wolf?

First of all, you don't need to be afraid, but you do need to behave respectfully. Wolves are generally shy and avoid humans. If, in rare cases, you actually come across a wolf on remote paths, it is most likely an inexperienced young animal that is curious.

If you are walking on official hiking and forest trails, you can usually avoid an encounter, as wild animals generally prefer to stay away from them. So there is no need to worry.

Should an encounter occur, however, the following behavior is recommended:

• Remain absolutely calm and do not run away in panic, as this could trigger the hunting reflex. Stand still and wait.
• Keep a sufficient distance. Do not try to approach the wolf. This gives the wolf the opportunity to retreat.
• Alternatively, you can try to drive the wolf away by clapping your hands and shouting loudly.
• Always keep your dogs on a lead.

Please document the location and time of the sighting and report it to the State Environment Agency of North Rhine-Westphalia (LANUV NRW) at the following e-mail address: wolf_nrw@lanuv.nrw.de.

Source: State Environment Agency of North Rhine-Westphalia 2024