The wolf is listed under appendices II und IV of the Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EWG). Accordingly, its conservation status must be observed, i.e. a sound monitoring has to be established. Wolf monitoring comprises active as well as passive methods. Genetic analyses are an important part of the monitoring. By means of genetic information, e.g. demarcation of neighbouring packs can be conducted and potential immigration from neighbouring wolf populations can be identified. DNA samples are collected throughout the year. The major part of samples is non-invasively collected, such as fresh scats, urine (on snow), hair, or saliva (swabs from recently killed wild ungulates or livestock).

An effective way to find genetic samples such as wolf scat is to work with conservation dogs, who are trained to sniff out and display wolf scat.
Together with my conservation dog Romeo, we are looking for indications and activity of wolves in a scientific context, especially in our home region of the Eifel. Here we work on a freelance basis for the State Office for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection of North Rhine-Westphalia. In the past we have already successfully supported the Lupus Institute for wolf monitoring and -science in the field work several times on a freelance basis, where we were able to gain valuable experience.

If you are interested in our work you can contact me via the contact form.