Bits and Bites from Around the World > Wild boar attacks in the Netherlands

 

Woman left bloody after wild boar attack in Meerssen days after similar attack in Veluwe

A person has been attacked by a wild boar in the municipality of Meerssen, De Telegraaf reported. A woman was left bloody after she was attacked in Geulle on Sunday. This came days after it was reported that a father and son were attacked in the Veluwe.

The woman was jogging in the area as she had done plenty in the past when she was attacked from behind by the boar. The woman then went to a nearby home for help while covered in blood. The victim was bit in three places in her leg. She was treated in the hospital and was able to go home the same day. She admitted to the local mayor, Mirjam Clermonts, that she was aware that there were wild boars in the area.

“I can only give behavioral indications,” said Clermonts. “Pay attention, stay away from nature reserves, especially after dark, stay on the paths, and keep dogs on a leash. Closing off this area, as we were able to do in Bunde last year, is difficult. There are too many entrances and exits.”

Wild boar attacks had been an issue in Meerssen for years. Several incidents of bloody confrontations were reported in 2023 and the early months of 2024. “We thought it was safe again,” said Ray Koumans, who lives a little further on from the location of the attack. “We went for a walk in the forest with the children last summer. We will not be doing that anymore for the time being.”

Math Roumans of the Wild Beheer Eenheid De Maasvallei has said that his organization has shot 54 wild boars in the area in the last year. “We are here almost every night.”

The hunters are volunteers who are often out until the late evening hours. They need to dispose of the carcass after shooting a boar. “Many people think we should shoot as many as possible, but others think we are animal abusers for this,” Roumans added.

There are certain rules when it comes to shooting the boars. The hunters are not allowed to shoot a sow with babies. Even though these are usually the animals that are more likely to panic and then attack somebody in defense of their young. Shooting near homes is also not permitted.

This incident came days after it was reported that a wild boar had attacked a father and son in the Veluwe. A 71-year-old man was left injured as a result of the attack.