A calf was found mauled to death in Brachtenbach last month, with a subsequent investigation indicating the animal was killed by a wolf.

Although analysis of DNA samples taken from the scene did not yield an unequivocal result, bite marks on the carcass indicate the perpetrator was a wolf.

The calf's remains, found in Brachtenbach near the Belgian border at the end of April, were sent to a laboratory in Germany for further testing. Luxembourg's Nature Administration has classified the incident as "confirmed signs" of the presence of a wolf, due to the clear nature of the bite marks. The owner of the calf is to receive compensation from the government for the loss of the animal.

In another case, two newborn calves were found dead in Lellig, displaying signs of being mauled and eaten. Although there were no indications this was done by a wolf, and it was unclear whether the animals had been alive when they were born, samples were duly sent to the Senckenberg Institute in Gelnhausen. In this instance, further analysis showed the attack had been carried out by a dog, and the farmer was not entitled to compensation.

The Nature Administration calls for any signs of a wolf presence to be reported to the following email address:wolf@anf.etat.lu. The Administration also highlights the role of wolves in the ecosystem, and adds that Luxembourg is sufficiently prepared for wolves to return to the country with a detailed management plan.

Rules of conduct when encountering a wolf

Although wolves tend to be shy and avoid contact with humans, it is possible to come across them in the wild in rare instances. In such cases, the following advice from the Nature Administration is to be observed:

  • Do not run away, because it could trigger the animal's hunting instinct.
  • Do not move towards the wolf and always keep it in sight - but without eye contact.
  • Get the wolf's attention: shout and wave your arms. If the wolf does not retreat, you should step backwards and keep your distance.
  • If the wolf gets closer, you should continue to shout and throw sticks, stones or other objects at the wolf.
  • NEVER lure a wolf with food, not even to take pictures.