Feb 11 • 08:53 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia TVNET

Call to report wolf footprints and attacks

Latvia's Ministry of Agriculture urges the public to report signs of wolf presence this winter, including footprints and attacks, to help monitor and manage the wolf population.

In Latvia, the Ministry of Agriculture has issued a call to the public, urging them to report signs of wolf presence during the snowy winter months. This initiative is essential for assessing the distribution and numbers of wolves in the country. Such information is crucial for the State Forest Service to monitor changes in the wolf population and make informed decisions regarding its management in the upcoming seasons. The signs to identify wolf presence include paw prints, feces, and carcasses of prey animals.

The Ministry has highlighted the use of the 'Mednis' application, which allows citizens to report their observations by taking photographs and enabling geolocation tracking. This app includes a map that displays reported signs of wolves across Latvia. The emphasis on public reporting is essential, especially when wolf signs are found near homes, farms, or populated areas, as swift action may be necessary to prevent human-wolf conflicts. In such cases, individuals are encouraged to contact the State Forest Service for assistance.

Each report will be evaluated in coordination with local hunting coordination committees, and if necessary, the service may issue permits for the removal of wolves exhibiting atypical behavior from the population. This proactive approach aims to balance wildlife management with public safety and addresses growing concerns regarding wolf encounters in rural areas, reflecting a broader dialogue about coexistence between humans and wildlife.

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