Nine sheep perished, possible culprit could be a wolf? - Nine sheep perished, but could it be the work of a wolf?
In the picturesque town of Bad Berka, located within the Wartburg district, a large-scale attack on a sheep herd has left nine animals dead and several others severely injured. This incident, suspected to be one of the largest wolf attacks in Thuringia this year, has sparked an investigation led by the Wolf Competence Centre.
Nine sheep were found dead near the Hainich in Bad Berka, with several other animals requiring euthanization due to their injuries. The exact number of affected animals is still unknown, as not all have been located. The herd was protected by a 90-centimeter high wire mesh fence, which is below the recommended 120 centimeters.
DNA samples have been taken from the scene and are being analysed to determine the identity of the predator. Preliminary assessments suggest that the culprit could be a wolf or a dog. It is important to note that a dog was identified as the culprit in a similar case involving 21 dead sheep in the Wartburg district in late June. Two weeks prior, a wolf was responsible for the killing of 25 sheep in the Gotha district.
The Ministry of the Environment has issued a statement regarding the incident, but detailed statistics on wolf attacks in Thuringia for 2025 are not widely published or covered in general news reports. For up-to-date and comprehensive data, it is recommended to consult official regional wildlife or forestry departments in Thuringia, local government releases, or specialized wildlife conservation organizations.
As the investigation continues, the Wolf Competence Centre will work diligently to identify the predator and prevent future incidents. The public is reminded to stay vigilant and report any unusual animal behaviour or signs of predation to local authorities.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing presence and impact of wolves in the region, and the need for continued efforts in coexistence and conflict management.
Following the wolf attack on a sheep herd in Bad Berka, environmental-science data on wolf attacks in Thuringia may be sought from official regional wildlife or forestry departments, local government releases, or specialized wildlife conservation organizations. The Commission, in light of this incident, may find it relevant to submit a report on the implementation of measures for coexistence and conflict management with large predators such as wolves by 31 December 2016 – a timely examination of health-and-wellness and science aspects in the context of environmental-science.
