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Scientists trying to determine how many wolves there are in Denmark – again
Shifa Rahaman
June 28th, 2016
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This article is more than 8 years old.
Specially trained dogs and camera surveillance the main tools of the trade
The first wolf in Denmark in over 200 years was spotted in 2012, and ever since, scientists have been on a quest to find out exactly how many are living in Denmark.
In early June, researchers from Aarhus University and the Natural History Museum in Aarhus used DNA tests from samples of wolf excrement to extrapolate that 40 wolves probably called Denmark home. However, the method used proved unreliable and the results were called into question, DR reports.
One more try
Now, researchers at Aarhus University are giving the project one more shot and using specially trained dogs and camera surveillance for the purpose.
“We’re developing some methods that enable us to move through an area more systematically to determine for sure whether or not there are wolves in it,” said senior scientist Peter Sunde.
Top secret
Dogs are used to track wolves by zoning in on any droppings, and cameras are then set up in areas that are likely to harbour the wild animal. Any pictures captured will then be uploaded to a digital database at the Natural History Museum in Aarhus.
However, researchers have so far refused to disclose the locations they are scouring, citing fears that too many members of the public might show up and scare the wolves away.
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