A wolf in Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide
There are clear indications of a wolf in the area of Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide. The wolf clearly appeared on camera images and a gnawed deer carcass was found. It is suspected that the wolf descended from the Netherlands in recent days and crossed the border into Flanders. First estimation is that this wolf stayed for at least several days in the area of Brabantse Wal (NL) / Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide and subsequent open areas. To rule out misunderstandings: the sheep casualties, which occurred in mid-April in Grenspark Kalmthoutse heide, were not the work of a wolf but of a dog.
At the moment, we do not know whether the wolf is a transient or intends to settle in the region. As a precaution, Natuur en Bos recommends securing small livestock in a stable or behind an electric fence at night. In the coming period, together with the Institute for Nature and Forest Research, Natuur en Bos will further monitor the region and try to find out whether the wolf will become a permanent fixture. If it settles permanently, there is a chance that Flanders will soon count a second wolf territory.
More info on the wolf (concerning sightings, prevention measures and damage claims) can be found at
- For Flanders: www.natuurenbos.be/wolf.
- For the Netherlands: https://www.brabant.nl/onderwerpen/natuur-en-landschap/natuur/wolf-in-brabant
Update
Earlier, it was reported that a number of sheep had been attacked by a dog. Initial observations pointed towards the dog for this attack. DNA analysis showed that it was the work of the wolf after all. Lab analysis shows that, contrary to what the damage picture suggested, a wolf was at work after all. The analysis indicates that it is a wolf haplotype 2 (WH02). This haplotype originates from the Central European population and is quite rare, but has now been spotted 3 times in Flanders.