Image Material Submitted to Experts for Evaluation
The Steinheim municipal administration immediately submitted the photographic material to the Baden-Württemberg Forestry Research Institute (FVA) and to Michael Zerrweck, the wildlife officer for the Ludwigsburg district, for expert evaluation.
In Baden-Württemberg, wildlife officers serve as the central points of contact for private citizens and government agencies regarding issues related to wildlife. Their role is enshrined in the Baden-Württemberg Hunting and Wildlife Management Act. They are based at the local hunting authorities and advise municipalities, government agencies, and citizens.
The FVA considers it likely that the animal captured on camera is a wolf. The wildlife officer for Ludwigsburg County supports this assessment. His evaluation also takes into account another recording from a wildlife camera in Ludwigsburg County.
No conspicuous behavior observed
The animal merely ran past a private property during the night. No conspicuous or unusual behavior was observed. According to experts, the animal is likely a young wolf passing through. Given the dense population and high human activity in the district, it is unlikely that the animal will remain permanently in the Steinheim area. It has probably already left the area.
In the neighboring Rems-Murr district, isolated possible wolf sightings have also been reported in recent days. It is currently impossible to determine whether these sightings involve the same animal.
“The animal is very likely just passing through”
Mayor Thomas Winterhalter explains: “A wolf in Steinheim is, of course, an unusual occurrence and naturally attracts attention at first. The photo is impressive—but it is no cause for panic. The animal walked inconspicuously past a property and, according to expert assessment, is very likely just passing through. It was important to us to first have the images reviewed by the relevant authorities and then to provide information openly, objectively, and without unnecessary dramatization.”
There are currently no restrictions on walks or other recreational activities in the woods and countryside. The usual caution and consideration required when encountering any wild animals still apply.
What should you keep in mind if you encounter a wolf?
Wolves are generally cautious animals and avoid contact with humans. Should an encounter occur nonetheless, the following recommendations apply:
- Stay calm and keep your distance.
- Do not approach the animal; do not chase or corner it.
- Do not run away; instead, back away slowly.
- Make your presence known by speaking loudly, shouting, or clapping.
- Keep dogs on a leash and close by your side.
- Do not feed the animal under any circumstances.
- Document sightings, if possible, with the location, date, and time, and—only from a safe distance—with photos or video footage.
Any further possible wolf sightings should be reported to Michael Zerrweck, the wildlife officer at the Lower Hunting Authority of the Ludwigsburg District Office, email: michael.zerrweck@landkreis-ludwigsburg.de, or directly to the FVA Wildlife Institute. The FVA can be reached by phone at 0761 4018-274 or by email at info@wildtiermonitoring.de.
