Provincial wildlife authorities are pleased with the reports of unusual canids, such as coyotes and wolves, as they continue to monitor and seek a deeper understanding of these animals’ presence on the island and in Labrador.
Recently, Nikita Compton encountered a small pack of animals near Goose Arm, sparking speculation about their identity. Wildlife officials find it challenging to identify these animals without testing, but they aim to gain more insights into the overall canid population.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands, responsible for overseeing the Wildlife Division, mentioned a Newfoundland wolf in an email, distinct from the extinct Labrador wolf subspecies since the 1930s. However, Labrador gray wolves have been documented on the island more recently, with cases reported in 2008 and 2012.
Since 2013, the Wildlife Division has been studying the movement of these animals. Genetic results from around 500 canid carcasses in the province showed that five animals had a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry, while four animals were confirmed as Labrador wolves. Additionally, 28 samples exhibited some level of wolf DNA, and genetic testing results from 427 samples collected between 2023-2025 are awaited.
According to the staff, genetic evidence indicates that wolves on the island have interbred with coyotes. Despite this, due to the larger coyote population, the wolf genetics are likely to remain diluted within the island’s canid population. Identifying the genetic background of a coyote solely by appearance is challenging, as coyotes vary naturally in size, color, and body proportion.
The interest in understanding the canid situation is valuable for ongoing research into animal life in the province. Hunters and trappers are encouraged to submit coyote and wolf carcasses to provide information on the impact of coyote colonization on the island and the potential reasons for wolves traveling from Labrador to the island. Efforts are underway to increase the number of canid samples from Labrador for improved detection of animals with wolf genetic ancestry.
In Labrador as well, hunters and trappers are urged to report canid carcasses to the Wildlife Division. It is not limited to the island; the goal is to enhance the understanding of canid populations across regions.
Provincial wildlife authorities remind the public that coyotes and wolves are rarely aggressive towards people. However, it is advised not to initiate contact with these animals or feed them. If encountering a coyote or wolf, it is recommended to remain calm, avoid running, make noise to deter the animal, and slowly back away if needed.
Remember to stay informed by downloading the free CBC News app for push alerts on CBC Newfoundland and Labrador news updates.