A wolf was photographed crossing a street in Dätgen on Tuesday morning, urging pet and livestock owners in the Rendsburg-Eckernförde district to exercise caution. Experts advise keeping distance but report no livestock attacks so far. The sighting is part of several recent observations in the surrounding area.
On Tuesday shortly before 10 a.m., Marko Selke observed a wolf crossing the street in Dätgen. The witness captured the encounter with his camera, shared the photos on social media, and informed the Landesamt für Umwelt (LfU) in Flintbek. “No, not really. But it was funny how the wolf trotted along the houses,” Selke recalled. He is convinced it was a wolf, identifiable by its distinctive trotting gait and size, not an escaped dog. As a horse owner, Selke plans to stable his animals.
Additional sightings occurred in Wasbek and Timmaspe: On Monday evening, the wolf triggered a camera trap; on Tuesday morning, it was photographed again in Dätgen by a walker as it jumped a ditch and headed toward the forest. Hunter Bernd Koshyk, who received photos, has not seen the animal himself. Due to many sheep on pastures, he is increasing patrols. He warns dog owners: “Dog owners should watch their pets if they stray too far during walks and encounter the wolf; it can quickly become dangerous.” Dogs are food competitors for the wolf. He advises riders to avoid the moor and Illoer Forest areas for now, as horses might bolt.
LfU spokesperson Martin Schmidt explains: “The sightings likely involve a single animal wandering through Schleswig-Holstein.” No livestock attacks have been reported. For encounters, he advises: Maintain distance, do not approach. If on foot and the wolf does not retreat, keep it in sight without direct staring, back away slowly, and do not run. Wolves often show little fear of vehicles or riders, which is common. In the unlikely case of direct approach—usually curious young animals—stand firm, shout loudly, clap hands, and throw objects if necessary.