Discover the Thriving Wolves of the Giant Mountains

The presence of wolves is carefully tracked by the Administration of Krkonoše National Park, working with experts from Mendel University in Brno. These experts are part of a project called Life Wild Wolf, which aims to investigate close interactions between people and wolves reported by locals and many visitors. They are setting up photo traps, documenting public reports, and mapping evidence of wolves such as tracks and droppings. The droppings are being analyzed for genetic and nutritional information. As a result, researchers have found that the wolves in the Krkonoše Mountains come from both Central European and Carpathian populations.

The wolf is a specially protected species. In the Krkonoše National Park, a more favorable return of wolves is anticipated compared to nearby wild areas. The park provides a fitting environment for these animals because of its protected status and the type of ecosystem present.

Wolves and livestock – decreasing interest in wolves

However, local farmers in the Krkonoše area do not find much joy in the return of wolves as they worry about their livestock. The KRNAP Administration keeps in close contact with these farmers and is actively seeking ways to improve communication. They have created a special application that provides farmers with updates about any livestock damages in areas where they graze, helping them protect their herds better. Additionally, the park authority offers farmers financial support for pasture security. Park rangers also conduct seminars to teach how to secure pastures effectively. An interactive map on the navratvlku.cz website shows a general overview of wolf-related attacks on livestock in the Czech Republic.

Compensation for livestock damage caused by wolves is provided to breeders based on Act No. 115/2000 Coll., which covers damages caused by certain specially protected animals, through the local authority. Wolves generally have a poor reputation, but they are naturally wary and do not attack humans; instead, they tend to keep their distance.

How to act during a wolf encounter

If you meet a wolf, it is essential to proceed with caution. Remember, the wolf is a wild animal. The KRNAP administration advises that visitors to the Krkonoše Mountains should always keep their pets on a leash. Under no circumstances should you feed the wolves or leave potential food scraps for them in the wild. Property owners and cabin residents must not discard food leftovers. Teaching wolves to associate humans with food is harmful to both the wolves and our ability to coexist peacefully.

In the event you see a wolf, it’s crucial to allow it an escape route. Do not block its way. It’s important to stay calm. The wolf will often observe you from a distance to judge if you are a threat, and it may not see well during daylight. To encourage it to leave, simply clap your hands or speak loudly so that the wolf recognizes you as a human.

Reporting wolf sightings

Have you spotted a wolf? You can share your sighting by submitting a report to the park rangers, ideally accompanied by photos. The KRNAP administration requests that you include important details such as the time and place of your observation, preferably with coordinates from mapy.cz. Please send your findings to the zoologist Karolina Mikslová at the email address [email protected] or via phone (including SMS) at 731 533 895. The KRNAP Administration appreciates all contributions from observers. For more information regarding wolves in the Krkonoše Mountains—both for visitors and farmers—please visit krnap.cz/priroda/vlci-v-krkonosich/.

The wolf holds a significant position in both our nature and culture. It inspires admiration and respect, but can also evoke fear. Historically, people have hunted it extensively, yet now it is slowly making a comeback and reclaiming its role as a predator. Insights from Europe show that it is indeed possible to manage landscapes while allowing wildlife to thrive. The Krkonoše National Park is expected to support a more successful return of wolves than the surrounding wild areas due to its mission and the nature of its ecosystem.