A wolf was spotted early Sunday morning in a residential area near Kapellen and Brasschaat, communities bordering Antwerp. The sighting, which was captured on video by a father and his son from their car, has drawn significant attention from wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
The footage, shared by the Belgian wildlife organisation Welkom Wolf, clearly shows the animal moving through the area. However, the exact location of the sighting has been withheld to ensure the safety of the wolf.
According to Welkom Wolf, such sightings tend to become more frequent on weekends and public holidays. “During the week, wolves find safety in natural habitats. But on weekends, their peace is often disturbed by hikers, cyclists, horse riders, and even hunters, pushing them to seek alternative routes,” the organisation explained.
The wolf, in search of cover and rest, may venture into areas it would normally avoid during daylight hours. Importantly, Welkom Wolf stressed that the animal was not on the hunt for food but was likely seeking safety. “The wolf in the video wants just one thing: to get away from people,” the organisation emphasised.
While the presence of a wolf in a residential area may alarm some residents, experts assure the public that these animals do not pose a threat to humans. Wolves are naturally wary of people and will generally avoid contact whenever possible.
Based on available data, it is believed that the wolf in question is Emma, a female that has been residing in the region since March 2023. So far, there have been no reports of other wolves in the vicinity, and no recent evidence suggests additional wandering individuals.
Emma’s presence highlights the gradual return of wolves to Belgium’s forests and open spaces, a phenomenon that has been observed in recent years. Conservationists view this as a positive sign of biodiversity restoration, though it also raises questions about human-wildlife coexistence.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain calm and to report any further sightings to wildlife organisations rather than attempting to approach the animal. Experts recommend keeping a safe distance and avoiding any actions that could startle or stress the wolf.
Belgium, like several other European countries, has seen an increasing number of wolves re-establishing themselves in rural and semi-urban areas.
These animals play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling populations of deer and wild boar. However, their presence can sometimes lead to conflicts with livestock owners and residents unfamiliar with their behaviour.
Welkom Wolf continues to monitor wolf activity in Belgium and urges the public to respect wildlife while raising awareness about the importance of these animals in the natural ecosystem.
For now, Emma’s sighting serves as a reminder of nature’s ability to adapt and reclaim lost territory, even in the proximity of human settlements.
While some may view the presence of wolves with apprehension, others see it as a testament to the resilience of wildlife in an ever-changing landscape.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
