Title: Wolf Attack Inquiry in Leusden: Expert Disagreement on Child’s Alleged Bite
Leusden, August 29, 2024 – The incident that took place last month at Den Treek estate in Leusden, involving a 5-year-old girl and a wolf, has sparked a debate among experts. The father, Matthijs, and the childminders who were watching the child at the time insist that the girl was bitten by a wolf. The after-school care center also agrees with the father and the childminders.
The girl was hiding an apple for a treasure hunt when she was attacked. She fell to the ground and did not see the wolf, who bit her from behind. The attack occurred in a knee-high grass area. The childminder, along with another child who was at a distance, witnessed the event. They claimed that the wolf bit the girl, and one of the witnesses heard rustling before the wolf appeared, stalked, and attacked the child.
Upon the incident, the girl and the childminder were treated by the family doctor, who treated the injury as a bite from a canine. The doctor noted that the injury was minor compared to severe dog bites. He treated the wound with cleaning and a course of antibiotics.
However, the situation has been complicated by the disagreement of wolf experts Glenn Lelieveld and Dick Klees, who advise the province of Utrecht on behalf of the Mammal Society. They maintain that the wolf did not bite the girl based on police photos and witness statements. Lelieveld explained that a wolf’s canine teeth are round, and it would be impossible for a canine tooth to be near the navel if a wolf were to bite someone in the side.
The family’s photos of the alleged bite have not swayed the experts, and pathologist Frank van de Groot also agrees with their assessment, stating that he does not see a bite from a canine in the images.
This case highlights the complexity of interpreting such incidents, especially when dealing with wild animals like wolves. It raises questions about the nature of the injuries and the actions of the animal, leading to ongoing debate among experts and those directly involved in the incident.
Views: 0