Wild animals in Rēzekne district: A Growing Concern
In the Rēzekne region, residents are facing a growing concern as wild animals, including bears and wolves, have been spotted in the area. Recently, two dogs were torn apart by wild animals in the village of Sprinda, causing shock and fear among the locals. This incident has raised questions about the safety of the community and the presence of these animals.
Vjačeslavs Laškovs, a resident of Sprinda, shared his experience with a bear attacking his dog in the village. He mentioned that six dogs have disappeared in the village over the past two years, with the last two cases involving dogs being found torn apart. Laškovs now takes precautions by guarding his house at night and using a radio to monitor the dogs' barking.
The Nature Conservation Department (DAP) and the State Forestry Department were informed about the incidents. DNA samples were collected to determine the animal responsible for the attacks. The analysis revealed that the attacks were likely caused by wolves, not bears. This information has been shared with the municipality and the public, and hunters and the Forest Service have been called upon to address the wolf attacks.
The wolf population in Latvia is stable, with around 1,400 individuals. The hunting of wolves is restricted, and the limit on hunting has been raised due to the recent mass wolf attacks. This year, 370 wolves have been hunted, compared to 300 last year. The residents of Silmala parish no longer feel safe, as they have seen bears and wolves near the village and in the forest.
To address the issue, the parish manager Edgars Bļinovs has implemented measures to prevent accidents with children. Two students are now being taken to school by parish transport, and residents have been informed about avoiding predators. The State Animal Welfare Service has registered 76 wolf attacks on pets and livestock this year, resulting in the death of 7 cows, 15 goats, over 200 sheep, and 13 dogs.
The growing presence of wild animals in the Rēzekne district has raised concerns about the safety of residents and the impact on livestock. The authorities are working to address the issue, but the residents are left with a sense of unease and the need for increased precautions.
