Environment and Climate Change
Fisheries, Forestry and Agrifoods
September 30, 2016
Public Advisory: Update on Wolf Activity in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
Residents of the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area are advised that provincial wildlife staff and conservation officers were successful in capturing and relocating three wolves believed to be involved in two recent incidences involving dogs in the community.
Two of the wolves were fitted with GPS collars to monitor their movements. All three animals were released in the same remote location approximately 130 kilometres from Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
The relocation of wolves to address conflicts or potential for conflicts in human-populated areas is not common. However, a behavioural assessment of the wolves involved provided indication that these animals were not highly habituated to people and are not likely to return.
Residents are reminded that wolves in the vicinity of settled areas have been known to occasionally attack or otherwise engage with off leash dogs resulting in serious injury or death to dogs. Pet owners, especially those living adjacent to wooded areas, are advised to protect their animals by:
- Keeping them indoors or in confined areas such as a fenced yard;
- Limiting the amount of time pets spend outside, especially after dark; and
- Supervising pets at all times while outside.
Should you encounter wolf:
- Stay calm;
- Give the animal space;
- Back away slowly - never run
Anyone sighting a wolf demonstrating aggressive behaviour or a notable lack of fear towards people should contact the 24-hour emergency line at 709-897-7116.
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Media contacts:
Vanessa Colman-Sadd Director of Communications Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agrifoods 709-729-3733, 682-6593 VanessaColmanSadd@gov.nl.ca |
Emily Timmins Director of Communications Department of Environment and Climate Change 709-729-2575 EmilyTimmins@gov.nl.ca |
2016 09 30 10:45 a.m.