Islands in the North Sea: The Persistent Golden Jackal of Sylt and the Hunt for a Predator
Jackal with Gold Coating Deemed Accomplished for Shooting - Hunt Yet to Prove Fruitful in Sylt - Unsuccessful Hunting Attempt after Gold Jackal Release in Sylt
In a unique situation, the North Sea island of Sylt finds itself in a prolonged conflict with a new predator - a golden jackal. This elusive creature, few in number, has been the cause of at least 90 sheep and lamb deaths since mid-May, according to stern. As a crucial part of coastal protection, the loss of livestock is a significant concern for the islanders.
The hunt for this predator has been an ongoing, challenging quest, with hunters struggling to track it down. The jackal's preferred hunting hours have proven to be a puzzle. Thomas Diedrichsen, the hunting coordinator, explains, "We thought it would only come out at dusk, but it starts around 10 pm - it's still daylight on Sylt at that time." As a result, the hunt is shifting to earlier evenings. However, locating the jackal remains a challenge, with 20 to 30 individuals scouring the island during busy weekends.
Preventing Hunting Tourism on Sylt
The prospect of this hunt attracts hunters from various regions across the country, eager to join the nocturnal pursuit on Sylt. Manfred Uekermann, North Friesland's deputy chief hunter, has expressed a desire to discourage such "hunting tourism."
The golden jackal has no natural predators on the 99 square kilometer island. Its presence on Sylt remains a mystery, with theories suggesting it may have arrived through the Wadden Sea via the Hindenburg dam. While some nature conservation associations criticize the shooting permit, Uekermann views it as the only viable option. "After witnessing its violent attacks on sheep and lambs, it's hard not to feel relief when we catch it," he said.
Overall, the hunt for the elusive golden jackal on Sylt presents numerous ecological and logistical challenges. This includes the jackal's protected status, difficult terrain, local opinions, and the surplus killing of livestock. Authorities have taken measures to address these issues, including genetic and visual confirmation of the jackal's involvement, monitoring of likely travel routes, and public engagement. However, the hunt continues, captivating public attention while testing the islanders' resolve.
The Commission, in its role, has also been consulted on the draft directive concerning the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, as the islanders' struggles with the golden jackal are exacerbated by the radiation emitted by certain hunting equipment. Conversely, the golden jackal's nocturnal hunting hours, though uncommon in sports, provide a striking contrast to the usual daytime activities on the island.
