Out and about in nature

Predators, mother cows and guard dogs

Wanderweg zum Lai da Rims
During a hike or a bike tour through the Val Müstair, you will enter the habitat of various farm and wild animals. In addition to suckler cow and sheep herds with guard dogs, bears and wolves currently live in our region.    

On the road in the habitat of predators.

The most important rules of conduct

If the rules of conduct are followed, there is no danger from wolves for hikers, bikers or ski tourers. All outdoor activities can be practiced as before despite the wolf population in Graubünden.

  • Recreational activities should always take place on designated paths and areas. The habitats of all wild animals must be respected.
  • Make sure that the animals are not attracted by openly accessible, potential food (e.g. garbage). Do not dispose of leftover food in the forest (e.g. at barbecue sites), not even in small quantities.
Mutterkuhherden

Livestock guarding dogs and suckler cow herds

In Val Müstair, livestock guarding dogs watch over their herds and suckler cows graze with their calves. Find out here where the herds and livestock guarding dogs can be found and how you should behave. 

What should I do if I encounter a bear?

  • Stay calm and try to grasp the situation calmly.
  • Do not approach the bear under any circumstances and avoid anything that the bear might see as a threat.
  • Identify yourself as human and move away without taking your eyes off the bear.
  • Avoid eye contact.
  • Do not leave litter or attract bears with food.
  • Stay on the trails and keep your dog on a leash.
  • Report observations of bears and their tracks to the local game warden

What should I do if I meet a wolf?

  • Stand still and try to grasp the situation. If the wolf notices you, it will usually retreat or flee.
  • If the wolf does not flee immediately, draw attention to yourself with a certain voice.
  • Retreat slowly, the wolf will observe you or flee directly.
  • Under no circumstances try to approach the wolf, not even for photos.
  • Never pursue a wolf.
  • Wolves must not be fed under any circumstances!
  • Report wolves with conspicuous behaviour or low shyness to the Game Warden.
  • Wolves may view dogs as intruders or prey. Always keep your dog under personal control or leash it.

Further information compact

Leaflets Office of Hunting and Fishing Canton Graubünden.

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Beobachtungen Grossraubtiere in Graubünden

Large carnivore observations in the canton of Graubünden Karte

A map of the Cantonal Office of Hunting and Fishing provides an overview of the distribution and occurrence of large carnivores in the canton of Graubünden.

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