The first wolf found in the Netherlands in 150 years was the victim of a wildlife crime

摘要: On July 4 th 2013 a dead subadult female wolf-like canid was found by the roadside between Luttelgeest and Marknesse in Noordoostpolder central part of Netherlands. As last observations wild wolves Netherlands date back to 1869 discovery this animal generated lot media attention. European wolf populations have been expanding since 1950s first packs recently established themselves Germany geographic proximity Dutch border, so natural re-appearance species seemed likely. We investigated taxonomy animal, its geographical origin, most recent history. Macroscopic biochemical analyses convincingly showed that it purebred wolf, related from eastern Europe. Bullet impacts shattered fragments chest flank, discrepancy timing post mortem rigor mortis intervals indicated shot prior illegal transport The fed on beaver either Carpathian mountains or Eifel which is too far for walked itself within 24 hours needed digest meal. These areas are only regions where haplotypes 87 Sr/ 86 Sr isotopes retrieved both remains stom- ach co-occur. therefore conclude 150 years did not enter but sadly proved be victim wildlife crime.