A pair of recent interactions between humans and wolves on Long Beach / Yaaqsis have prompted Pacific Rim National Park Reserve officials to renew a warning for beachgoers.
“One interaction indicates that the wolves have increased their boldness in (an) attempt to prey on dogs, including large, leashed dogs,” officials said.
In one encounter, two wolves charged someone with a leashed dog “and pursued them at very close proximity for an extended period.”
The second interaction had two wolves approaching a visitor on the beach and “pushing” them into the water.
Parks Canada first issued a warning about wolves in late September over concerns coastal wolves were becoming more habituated. Officials renewed the warnings after the latest incidents.
In response to these interactions, Parks Canada is asking visitors and locals to:
- Leave your dog at home. Dogs are an attractant to wolves.
- Keep children close.
- Carry bear spray, ensure it’s accessible and know how to use it.
- Avoid hiking alone and in areas with no human activity.
- Stay alert and watch for signs such as tracks and droppings.
- Respect all warnings, closures and restrictions.
If you see a wolf:
• DO NOT RUN and do not crouch down. Create space by backing away slowly while maintaining eye contact with the animal.
• Pick up small children and keep the group together.
• Yell, wave your arms and look large; if you have one, use an air horn.
• Remove your bear spray from its holster and be prepared to use it.
• If a wolf approaches you: Throw sticks and stones. If the aggression escalates, use bear spray and fight back.
Visitors should report all wolf sightings immediately to Parks Canada Emergency Dispatch (1-877-852-3100 or 250-726-3604).
To follow bulletins for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, visit parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/bulletins.
READ MORE: WildSafeBC explains how to avoid bear encounters
READ MORE: Venturing into Khutzeymateen: Canada’s only grizzly bear sanctuary
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