Netherlands tightens wolf management after farm attacks

Farmer Roel van Dijk in Rhenen reported a wolf killing one of his sheep just 20 metres from his house, near an area where his grandchildren play. He called for urgent discussion on human safety as well as livestock damage, inviting municipal politicians and the press. The local council noted its limited authority, emphasizing that responsibility for wolf management lies with the province, and promised to revisit the issue after the summer recess.

At the same time, the Dutch government introduced new rules defining a “problem wolf”. Under the Algemene Maatregel van Bestuur announced by State Secretary Erkens, a wolf may be shot or captured if it meets any of several criteria within a two‑week period, such as attacking people, being seen repeatedly on school playgrounds, injuring dogs, or harming sheep. The regulations also allow aversive conditioning, including non‑lethal methods like paintball shots, before lethal action is considered.