Redemann himself has not yet seen it in the region, but that does not mean that the wolf is not also underway in our local forests on its expeditions from neighbouring Rhineland Palatinate, where several sightings of the animals have been confirmed. In April, a married couple claimed to have seen a wolf near the “Seufzerbrücke” (Bridge of Sighs) in the Siebengebirge but this has still not been confirmed.

There are around 30 lynx and wolf advisors thoughout the state trained by the State Agency for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection (LANUV), including not only forest rangers but also employees of nature conservation agencies. Their tasks: to inform, to documents sightings and to secure any evidence. Whether a wolf was there or not can only be definitely confirmed using genetic proof. The data collected is recorded in the statewide wolf register. According to this, there have been 37 recordings of wolves in NRW since 2009. As these did not settle, but were only individual animals passing through, NRW is currently classified as a so-called “state expecting wolves”.

“The more heated the debate for and against wolves, the more often people believe they have seen one,” says Redemann. His telephone rings about twice a month because walkers or concerned farmers think they have seen a wolf – and the number is rising. Redemann is convinced that these are mostly dogs, for example the wolf-like Husky. Nevertheless, all reports are carefully recorded in writing by the wolf consultant. He also goes to secure evidence if there have been very concrete sightings.

Redemann gets annoyed with people who, mainly out of ignorance, speak out quickly in favour of shooting wolves. “Often they even say: ‘The animal was wiped out for a reason.’ This is a real witch hunt going on.” This is especially so, as the same people would get upset if they had to keep their dogs on a lead in the woods. “I’m not saying that the wolf is harmless, but it is also not dangerous. A healthy wolf does not attack a human. There is no comparison to the frequency of attacks on people by dogs.” The predator has no interest in humans and if at all, then more likely in their four-legged companions if they are not on a lead.

The problem is that nowadays it is too easy for the wolf to kill domestic livestock. “We must therefore better protect livestock, for example with special fences or herd protection dogs.” As a wolf consultant, it is also Redemann’s job to advise livestock owners and farmers accordingly.

Wolf consultant Marc Redemann is available on 02293/9099461 or under the mobile number 0171/5871262.

(Original text: Gabriela Quarg. Translation: kc.)