As of: March 29, 2024, 6:48 a.m
By: Bettina Menzel, Romina Kunze
Comments
Press
Split
A trip ends in an unexpected and dangerous adventure for a German holidaymaker in Australia. He narrowly escapes a wild dingo.
Brisbane - Kangaroos, spiders, emus: Anyone traveling to Australia will have already become somewhat familiar with the island's special flora and fauna. Especially in the animal world, there are numerous unique, but sometimes poisonous or dangerous species. Getting to know each other better is usually only recommended in a controlled environment. In the wild, however, it can be dangerous; regardless of the animals' often inconspicuous appearance.
This is what happened to a holidaymaker from Germany who made an unpleasant acquaintance with a dingo during a trip to the paradise island of K'gari (formerly Fraser Island).
Attack from nowhere: German tourist injured by dingo on excursion to Australia
As Australian media report, the German and his three fellow travelers were traveling by car to explore the world's largest sand island off the coast of Queensland. They got out in front of a watercourse to check the depth and make sure they could drive through. A dingo suddenly attacked the group, according to the
AAP
news agency , citing the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
They may look like cute dogs, but they are dangerous and unpredictable. Visitors to the popular sand island of K'gari in Australia should beware of dingoes. (Symbolic photo/collage) © Imago/photo collage
The German tourist suffered an injury to his shin from the unexpected encounter. He saved himself from the wild dog by jumping onto the hood of the vehicle, the report continues. The other three travelers remained unharmed. The man's bite wound was not deep and was later treated by paramedics. The incident occurred in mid-March 2023.
Why Dingo Incidents Occur on K'gari, Australia
The dog-like predators are widespread on the popular sand island. It is estimated that hundreds of dingoes live there in around 25 to 30 packs. They are a protected species on K'gari. According to a spokesman for the Ministry of Environment and Science, around 130 incidents were reported in the first half of 2023. Most attacks ended lightly.
However, in July 2023, a jogger was seriously injured by a pack of dingoes. The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service warns against underestimating the animals. Even though they look similar to tame domestic dogs, dingoes are unpredictable and dangerous, especially when people get too close to them. Therefore, the following behaviors should be observed:
Dingoes should not be fed or disturbed in any way. It can be reported and result in severe fines.
It is recommended to travel in groups. But children and young people should always stay close to adults.
It is best to only camp in fenced areas.
Neither running nor jogging.
Leave no food or waste. Seal food and drinks tightly.
Carry a stick or umbrella for protection.
If you come into contact with dingoes: Stay calm, keep your arms close to your body and always face the animal.
My news
Quake in the construction industry: Read the bankruptcy of a large German real estate company
Shooting down of F-16 fighter jets: Putin threatens to attack NATO airfields read
Silent holiday before Easter – What are you allowed to do on Good Friday in Bavaria? read
Nasty scam with the Rosenheim cops: Actors pack with atrocities read out in their name
Cheese recall: Federal Office warns of health risks – according to the RKI, three groups are particularly susceptible to focus reading
She had planned Gottschalk's visit to BR completely differently: Schöneberger lost his composure
Source: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, SZ
The rules of conduct are roughly comparable to those when coming into contact with wolves. Sightings and encounters with the predator have recently increased in Germany; in Bavaria, an animal is worrying residents and farmers.
Don't underestimate: Authorities in Australia warn against encounters with dingoes
Every year around half a million people visit K'gari, which aptly means "paradise" in the Aboriginal language. According to a report by Australian broadcaster ABC, the increase in attacks is also due to many tourists ignoring warnings and instructions from rangers. Australia's Department of Environment warns that tourists who feed dingoes could face a fine of up to $11,500 (approximately €10,560).
Dangers from animals also lurk in the water in Australia: At the beginning of the year, a woman was lucky to survive a violent shark attack. In November 2023, a man bizarrely defused a risky situation with a crocodile. A non-dangerous but disturbing discovery on an Australian beach was captured by a person on TikTok.
The editor wrote this article and then used an AI language model for optimization at her own discretion. All information has been carefully checked.
Find out more about our AI principles here.