Getting to know and tracking the wolves of Kočevsko
Participating in the wolf tracking program will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and intriguing insights into the biology and ecology of wolves. You'll learn about their way of life, behavior, and winter hunting habits, and gain a better understanding. Additionally, you'll gain an understanding of how the future of wolves is closely tied to the tolerance of people who share their habitat. Wolf tracking also offers a captivating research experience in the snowy landscapes of the Kočevsko forests. Together with our guide, you will explore the wolves' habitat and look for signs of their presence. The search for tracks will be carried out in a way that complies with the Guidelines for Responsible Behavior in Tourism and thus does not disturb wolves and other wildlife.
Season: April - October
Length: 5-7 hours
Suitable for: lovers of nature, families with children, couples, smaller groups
Group size: up to 8 participants
Physical challenge: medium
Mandatory equipment: hiking shoes, reusable water bottle, suitable sport clothing (including a waterproof jacket in case of bad weather forecast)
Course of the program:
In the morning, you will meet a local experienced guide in Kočevje at the Kulturni center Kočevje (Kočevje Cultural Centre) meeting room. You'll start your day with a cup of coffee and get to know the Kočevsko area, along with the specific microlocations where tracking will occur. Our guide will immerse you in the world of wolves, using photos, videos, and stories to introduce you to 'famous' wolves in Slovenia. You'll come to understand that wolves are timid animals that avoid humans. Additionally, you'll gain insights into wolf monitoring in Slovenia, the challenges and advantages of coexistence, and measures for a harmonious relationship with these majestic creatures. You will learn where in Slovenia and Kočevsko wolves that were equipped with a telemetric collar move and reside. Before the forest visit you will repeat the rules that must be followed when searching for wolf tracks, in order to prevent any possible disturbance of the wolves.
The presentation will be followed by an immersive forest visit where you'll delve into the ecology, habits, and behaviors of wolves. During the ride, you'll have the opportunity to stop and examine mud roads, often bearing tracks of various animals. The guide will identify and explain these tracks to you, helping you understand the diverse wildlife in the area. You'll also stop at a location where we've set up a photo trap to view snapshots of animals in their natural habitat. Then, you'll have the chance to create keepsake casts using plaster and wolf paw 'stamps.'
Following this, you'll enjoy a well-deserved break, accompanied by a delightful 'forest picnic' featuring local delicacies from our forest picnic basket.
Your journey continues to an abandoned wolf or fox den, where the guide will provide insights into the dynamics of wolf packs, cub rearing, and the path to independence for young wolves.
The next stop will take you to a livestock farm or pasture, where the guide will share the challenges and solutions of coexistence with wolves.
Price:
2 people 160 EUR/person
3 people 110 EUR/person
4-8 people in a group 90 EUR/person
The price of the program includes:
- accompaniment by a local and experienced guide,
- transportation,
- "forest picnic",
- surprise gift.
Contact and additional information:
Zavod Kočevsko, TIC Hostel Bearlog
+386 31 544 744
This program was prepared in cooperation with the LIFE WOLFALPS EU project (LIFE18 NAT/IT/000972).
