Viral News

Why Do Wolves Turn To Man-Eating? Understanding The Bahraich Attacks

Wolves, often portrayed as mystical creatures in media, are actually formidable predators. The recent wolf attacks in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich, where eight children and one woman were killed, have underscored their hunting prowess.

The Bahraich Attacks

Over the past two months, a pack of six wolves has been terrorizing villages in the Bahraich division, resulting in nine human fatalities. In response, the forest department initiated Operation Bhediya, capturing four wolves while continuing to search for the remaining two.

Local resident Kishore Kumar noted that this was the first instance of such attacks in their area, a sentiment supported by the International Wolf Centre (IWC), which notes that wolf attacks on humans are extremely rare.

Do Wolves Typically Attack Humans?

Generally, wolves do not pose a threat to humans. As carnivores, they usually stay within their territories and consume prey over extended periods. A study by the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (2002-2020) recorded only 26 fatal wolf attacks worldwide, with four in India linked to rabies infections.

Reasons Behind Man-Eating Behavior

  1. Habituation: Wolves typically avoid human settlements. However, prolonged proximity to humans can diminish their fear, leading them to prey in these areas.
  2. Cross-Breeding: According to biologist Yadvendradev Jhala, interbreeding between wolves and dogs might make wolves more comfortable in human environments, increasing the likelihood of attacks.
  3. Loss of Habitat or Food: A shortage of natural prey or habitat destruction may drive wolves to attack humans. Scarcity of food sources can lead them to target vulnerable individuals.

Wolves generally prefer smaller prey, which explains the higher incidence of attacks on children. The IWC observes that man-eating wolves often choose children as victims due to their easier accessibility.

Conservation Status

The Indian wolf, with an estimated population of 4,400–7,100 as of 2020, is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Despite a history of coexisting with humans in the Ghaghara river region, the Bahraich incidents highlight the urgent need to address and understand human-animal conflicts to prevent such tragedies.

Drishya Madhur

I bring my expertise and enthusiasm to my role as a sub-editor at The Daily Guardian, where I contribute to creating meaningful and thought-provoking content daily. With a background in Journalism and Mass Communication, I have dedicated the last three years to honing my craft as a content writer. Over this time, I have gained extensive experience in News Writing, Blog Writing, Article Writing, and Content Writing, showcasing my ability to adapt my writing style to diverse platforms and audiences. My journey in the dynamic world of media has not only sharpened my storytelling abilities but also deepened my understanding of how impactful communication can shape perspectives.

Recent Posts

India-Bangladesh Border Talks Focus on Fencing, Infiltration

The India-Bangladesh DG-level border talks will address border fencing, infiltration, and cross-border crimes, marking the…

32 minutes ago

Shortest Work-Week Nation Prepares for Snap Election

Vanuatu, known for its 24.7-hour work week, holds elections tomorrow following a devastating earthquake. Recovery…

59 minutes ago

Hamas Yet To Respond To Gaza Ceasefire Deal Amid Continued Mediation Efforts

Talks for a Gaza ceasefire deal continue with Israel and Hamas, but Hamas' lack of…

1 hour ago

Indira Gandhi Bhawan: A Fresh Start for Congress or Just Another Landmark?

After a prolonged wait, Congress finally inaugurated its long-awaited permanent headquarters on Wednesday, a significant…

1 hour ago

SC Questions Punjab’s Claim on Farmer Leader Dallewal’s Health Amidst 49-Day Hunger Strike, Seeks AIIMS Opinion; Urges Swift Resolution to Farmers’ Demands

Expressing concerns over the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been…

2 hours ago

Nearly 50,000 International Students Missing In Canada, India Tops The List, Raising Visa Concerns

Nearly 50,000 international students are missing from Canadian colleges and universities, with Indian nationals making…

2 hours ago