Ecologist recommends Leningrad to scare off the wolf with a loud and confident voice

If you encounter a wolf, it is recommended to scare him away with a loud and firm voice. However, as Ilya Rybalchenko, an expert on information and environmental safety and a senior lecturer at IMEMO, emphasized, it is not necessary to run away, as this can provoke a predator to pursue. This is reported by News.ru.

The speaker notes that the wolf is not a bloodthirsty character from fairy tales, but a cautious wild beast that in normal circumstances tries to stay away from people. However, his discretion does not guarantee complete safety when meeting him.

“The main rule is not to run away. A running person can trigger a stalking reaction in an animal. If the wolf begins to approach, does not retreat and exhibits threatening behavior, the tactics change. We need to show that he is not an easy prey. Straighten up, try to look bigger, you can raise your hands or open your jacket, speak in a loud and firm voice, Rybalchenko said.

He noted that if a wolf is approaching, it is necessary to make a loud noise, and if it threatens, use any available items for deterrence and protection. The expert stressed that it is necessary to move slowly and carefully to the car, house or other shelter.

According to the interlocutor, you should be especially vigilant, especially when it comes to children and pets. A small child should be kept nearby and not allowed to go far. It is recommended to keep the dog on a short leash so that it does not attract the attention of the wolf and does not provoke a dangerous rapprochement.

“If an attack does occur, one cannot pretend to be dead. We must defend ourselves vigorously. A separate issue is reports of the mass appearance of predators in settlements. Here it is important to distinguish between the increase in the number of encounters and the real increase in the number of animals. It's not the same thing. Wolves can be attracted by affordable food and the distribution of their natural prey, Rybalchenko added.

The expert warned that if the wolf is near residential buildings and does not feel fear of people, you should immediately report it to the emergency services by calling 112. In his opinion, one should not try to catch or chase the animal on their own. In the case of a bite or scratch, the ecologist recommended that the wound be thoroughly washed with soap and water and seek immediate medical attention.