Danish authorities have issued guidance for tourists on how to respond if they encounter a wolf while visiting the country. After an absence of approximately 200 years, wolves have been returning to Denmark since 2012, with the current population estimated at around 49 animals primarily located on the Jutland peninsula.

Encounters between wolves and humans remain rare, but younger wolves have been observed approaching people near popular tourist areas such as Oksbøl earlier this year. In response, the municipality of Varde, in collaboration with Visit Vesterhavet, has distributed informational flyers to holiday homes, campsites, and local tourist offices. These materials are provided in Danish, English, and German to accommodate the diverse visitor demographic.

The advice recommends that tourists maintain eye contact with the animal and stand still upon encountering a wolf. Visitors are encouraged to take a photograph if possible. If the wolf does not retreat, they should attempt to scare it off by shouting, clapping, and waving their arms. Although no attacks on humans by wolves have been reported in Denmark to date, authorities advise that in the unlikely event of an attack, individuals should fight back with maximum force, using fists, kicks, or any available blunt objects to defend themselves.

This guidance aims to enhance safety awareness as the wolf population continues to establish itself in Denmark, balancing conservation efforts with public precaution.