After a wolf attack, Cloud was the only survivor from his herd. By pure miracle, he was physically unharmed, but it was a deeply traumatic experience. That is why he is staying with us for a while.

Cloud watched his companions flee, fight, and perish. For his owners, who live just across the border near Hoogerheide, it was a horrifying experience. They now want to redesign their pasture so that wolves can no longer enter, and they are building a barn to lock their animals inside at night from now on. Via social media, we invited people to share their experiences and advice regarding wolves. Below is our summary of many valuable tips:

Pasture fencing

Fence in pastures with high barriers (at least 1.8 meters tall). Run 7 to 11 electric wire strands. Plant bushes and hedges with sharp thorns on both sides of the fence (such as raspberry, blackberry, hawthorn, or gorse).

Option without electricity

You can also fence without electricity: attach 2-meter-high tennis chain-link fencing. Insert iron stakes 60 centimeters deep every few centimeters. To prevent wolves from digging underneath, attach sheep wire to the fencing and stake it flat into the ground.

Training

Whistle or call your animals indoors daily for (extra) treats. That way, they will also come when you whistle or call if danger threatens.

Barn or open shed

Bring your animals into the barn starting at dusk. If you only have an open shed, install kennel panels and ensure a sturdy enclosure.

Other animals

Expand your herd with other guard animals. Donkeys bray when danger is near. Maremma / Italian livestock guardian dogs are extremely vigilant, while remaining gentle toward humans and their own herd. Llamas are also said to deter wolves.

Motion and sound sensors

Utilize lights and cameras: light acts as a deterrent, and cameras allow you to monitor what is happening on the farm. Place sound sensors half a meter away from the fence line.

Neighborhood watch app

Set up a neighborhood group chat so you can warn each other quickly.

Wooden rattle

If a wolf comes too close, run to the pasture and swing a wooden noise-maker rattle (a vintage toy). The loud clatter scares off wolves.

Interesting resources

Facebook Video: Arctic Fox Daily Wildlife Rescue, Inc. (If they can keep wolfdogs and foxes in, the design can likely keep wolves out.)

Saveafox Corporation: Offers an instructional video explaining fencing construction and ground mesh used for their exercise yards and enclosures.

Wolf Fencing Team Belgium: Provides instructions and video guides on setting up wolf-resistant fencing on their website.

DLG-Merkblatt 455: The German guide “Herdenschutz gegen den Wolf” is highly recommended.

Visit the Alpaca Rescue Center or book an alpaca or llama activity. By doing so, you directly support animals in need at our rescue shelter while enjoying an unforgettable day out yourself!