Expert Urges Culling of Wolf After Close Encounter with Children

A wildlife expert wants authorities to put down a male wolf in Denmark. The animal recently walked unusually close to children. Experts believe someone has been feeding the wolf. This feeding made the wolf lose its natural fear of humans.

• Incident: A male wolf walked close to children in Denmark.
• Cause: Experts suspect illegal feeding caused the wolf to lose fear of humans.
• Location: Wild wolves live in Jutland, not in the Copenhagen area.
• Safety advice: Never feed wildlife, keep a distance, and do not run if you see a wolf.

Wolves returned to Denmark in 2012 after two centuries. They live mainly in rural Jutland, far from Copenhagen. However, many Copenhagen residents visit Jutland for nature trips. Local residents and travelers should follow safety rules outdoors.

Danish authorities strongly advise people never to feed wild animals. Feeding alters wild behavior and creates serious safety risks. If you see a wolf, stay calm and keep a safe distance. Speak loudly and raise your arms if the animal comes near. You can report unusual wolf sightings to the Danish Environmental Protection Agency (Miljøstyrelsen).