Wolf presence Switzerland

A wolf has probably been roaming the canton of Zurich again: a wolf-like animal was spotted twice last week in the Albis area, and two roe deer were killed.

The canton informed the public about the possible renewed wolf sighting on Monday afternoon via its SMS wolf warning service. According to this brief notification, DNA from the roaming animal was secured.

Fifth confirmed wolf presence since 2014

If the animal does indeed turn out to be a wolf, it would be the fifth confirmed wolf presence in the canton of Zurich since 2014. Previously, the wolf had been considered extinct in this area for over 100 years.

According to the authorities, there is no danger to people, large livestock, or domestic animals. Respect is nonetheless advised: if you encounter the naturally shy wolf, you should keep your distance and withdraw.

Possible second wolf pack in Graubünden

A second wolf pack may have formed above Trin in Graubünden. However, confirmed proof of the Ringelspitz pack is still lacking.

This summer, the predator specialist agency KORA genetically confirmed the presence of male wolf M56 above Falera. In the same area, saliva and scat traces from female wolf F33 were secured last summer and autumn. According to the Group Wolf Switzerland, these two wolves have been a pair since last summer.

Three young wolves fell to their deaths

In the past three weeks, two six-month-old wolves fell to their deaths on steep terrain in that area. Above Trin and Flims, a third young wolf has already fallen and succumbed to its injuries.

Why the three young wolves fell to their deaths within just three weeks near the alpine pasture at Piz Mirutta remains unclear. That they were driven onto the steep slope by livestock guardian dogs protecting the sheep herd kept there is conceivable, but merely a hypothesis. More on wildlife and on the hunting law.