Wolfsgarten, Historical wolf-catching facility in Erzgebirge, Germany.
The Wolfsgarten is a historical wolf-catching facility in the Erzgebirge mountains between Crandorf and Breitenbrunn, consisting of wooden palisades and concealed pits. The structure used strategically placed openings to direct wolves toward capture zones where hunters waited.
The facility was actively used in the 17th century, with the Crandorf community requesting exemption from hunting duties in 1658 because mining operations were disrupted. The last wolf in the region was shot in 1816, ending systematic hunting at this site.
Winter wolf hunting involved tracking footprints in snow and using sheep as bait, reflecting traditional hunting methods in the Erzgebirge region.
The site is accessible on foot via mountain paths connecting the two villages, which provide natural orientation points. Visitors should bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as trails in the Erzgebirge can be steep and challenging.
The last wolf in Erzgebirge was shot in 1816, marking the end of systematic wolf hunting at the Wolfsgarten facility.
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