Wolf Attacks On Humans - Seven Stages

Seven Stages

Ethologist Doctor Valerius Geist of the University of Calgary, Alberta outlined seven hypothetical stages which lead to wolf attacks on humans based on historical and modern accounts.

• The first outlined stage is scarcity of wild game, be it due to poaching, habitat loss or seasonal migration.
• Wolves begin approaching human habitations, though limit their visits to nocturnal hours. Their presence is usually established by barking matches with local dogs.
• After a certain amount of time, wolves begin to frequent human habitations in daylight hours, and observe people and livestock at a distance.
• The wolves begin acting bolder by attacking small livestock and pets during daylight, sometimes pursuing their prey up to verandas. At this point the wolves do not focus on humans, but will growl and act threateningly toward them.
• The wolves begin attacking large-bodied livestock and may follow riders, as well as mount verandas and look into windows.
• People begin to be harassed, usually in a playful manner. The wolves will chase people over short distances and nip at them, though will retreat if confronted.
• Wolves begin attacking people in predatory fashions.