Denmark expands permit to shoot problem wolf

Denmark's Nature Agency has received an expanded permit to manage a wolf that has repeatedly approached citizens in the Houstrup area near Nørre Nebel. This new authorization significantly broadens the agency's options for controlling the animal.

The updated permit allows for the wolf to be shot on private land, provided there is an agreement with the landowners. It also permits shooting from a greater distance than 30 meters and removes the requirement for the wolf to exhibit overtly aggressive behavior at the exact moment of regulation. Furthermore, the Nature Agency is now permitted to use shotguns for this purpose.

Since August 6, the Nature Agency has been actively trying to locate the wolf, employing methods such as thermal drones and rifle-equipped personnel. The efforts were intensified on Tuesday with the introduction of an SMS service, enabling citizens to report wolf sightings directly to the authorities.

This development comes as concerns grow about the wolf's proximity to human settlements. The expanded powers aim to address the situation effectively while adhering to regulations for managing wildlife, particularly protected species like wolves, which have been reintroduced to Denmark.