An eight-year-old girl suffered serious injuries after at least one wolf attacked her during a children’s event inside an enclosure at Johannismühle Wildlife Park, located south of Berlin, Dagbladet reported.
Wolf Attacks Child Inside Enclosure During Park Activity
The attack occurred Wednesday morning during a scheduled children’s activity inside the park’s Arctic wolf enclosure. German police stated that the victim was accompanied by two other children and a park employee when the animal struck. A zookeeper intervened before the wolves could reach the remaining children. The injured girl was airlifted to a hospital by an air ambulance, while police confirmed the two other children appeared physically unharmed.
Johannismühle Wildlife Park announced it will remain closed to visitors through November 2, according to notices published on the facility’s official website. Local authorities have launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the enclosure breach.
Recent Captive Animal Incidents Across Europe
The German wolf attack follows a series of fatal and severe animal incidents in captivity across Europe. A zookeeper died on Tuesday following an attack inside a leopard enclosure at Safaripark Beekse Bergen in the Netherlands, as reported by CNN. Earlier in October, a man identified as William Chapman was killed by a tiger after entering an enclosure at a British wildlife park.
The incident in Germany also echoes a rare urban encounter earlier this year, when Associated Press reports noted a woman was bitten by a wolf in a shopping area in Hamburg. That event marked the first attack of its kind since wolves returned to Germany in 1998.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Wildlife Park Attack
Which wildlife park was the site of the wolf attack?
The attack took place at Johannismühle Wildlife Park, situated south of Berlin, Germany, inside an enclosure housing Arctic wolves.
How long will Johannismühle Wildlife Park remain closed?
According to the park’s official website, the facility will stay closed to the public at least until November 2 while police investigate the incident.
What was the outcome for the other children present during the incident?
German police reported that the two other children who were inside the enclosure alongside the victim appeared unhurt after a zookeeper intervened.
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