In the Sithonia area of Halkidiki, authorities and environmental organizations have launched search operations using drones, cameras and traps to locate a wolf that attacked a 5-year-old child from Serbia last Friday. The child was transferred to Polygyros hospital, where first aid was provided for scratches and bite wounds.
A man who helped drive away the wolf using stones told Thesspost.gr that “fortunately the child is fine and returned home, it all happened very quickly”. The incident caused concern among residents, however the relevant authorities clarify that there is no reason for panic, only increased vigilance. A photograph from the area was released to the public, taken shortly after the animal was driven away.
Measures to locate the wolf
The deputy mayor of Sithonia, Athanasios Mallinis, responsible for Civil Protection, emphasized that in cooperation with the Kallisto organization all necessary measures have been taken to locate and remove the wolf. “It has been confirmed that it is a wolf and not a jackal,” he stated. According to Mr. Mallinis, the organization has installed cameras and is using drones with thermal cameras during the night to locate the animal. Meanwhile, traps will be placed within the week to safely capture the wolf.
Advice for residents and visitors
The deputy mayor advised residents and visitors to the area to be careful, especially those walking their dogs. “Use leashes for dogs, as attacks on animals have been recorded,” he emphasized. Additionally, Kallisto points out that this is an urgent case, as the familiarization of this particular young wolf with humans makes it problematic for the area’s safety.
According to Jason Bantios, spokesperson for Kallisto, the relevant services of the Ministry of Environment will make the final decision on the animal’s fate. Local authorities continue to inform residents and visitors to take precautions, especially during very early morning and evening hours, to avoid new attacks and protect the community and companion animals.
The cooperation between the municipality, Kallisto and the forest service is ongoing, while the use of technology such as drones and thermal cameras is expected to contribute decisively to the rapid location of the wolf and prevention of new incidents.
