Environment Newsline

Wolves have been part of our lives and folklore throughout human history. For example, Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers who are credited with building Rome, were supposedly nursed by a wild wolf. Other cultures describe the wolf as a powerful spirit, a brother or as a nuisance and a threat to human livelihood and life.

Wolves are top-line predators that hunt and eat all animals, from mice to moose. They are generally shy and will avoid humans to the extent that most people will never see one.

"When people do see a wolf there is a chance that the animal has become habituated, which means it is used to being around people," says Tim Trottier, a wildlife ecologist with the Ministry of Environment. "Habituated wolves may be found near campgrounds, industrial sites and garbage dumps. To get at the garbage the wolves will let themselves be seen during the day, they will travel dangerously close to people and even approach them. Habituated wolves associate the presence and scent of humans with food. These wolves are potentially dangerous to people."

A wolf that will take risks around a person will use observation and 'testing' to read someone it encounters. It may include moving around to observe from different locations, approaching at a slow walk or bounding toward the person. If the wolf barks it is alarmed and probably wants some space or is protecting something. A frightened or nervous wolf will rotate its ears to the side and tuck its tail between its legs. A wolf with ears forward and tail hanging straight down is very aware and may be trying to 'read' the situation better. A wolf with ears flattened and lips drawn into a snarl is either cornered or aggressive and is warning of an attack. A wolf that canters off and stops to look back is putting distance between it and the person and is not a threat. Sometimes pups, usually without adults present, will approach people out of curiosity.

If someone encounters a wolf they should raise their arms and wave them in the air and, if possible, throw something at the animal. They should not turn their back; instead they should back away, making as much noise as they can. If there is a dog involved, keep it close and, if possible, restrain it. If the wolf attacks, fight back.

"We have to remember that wolves are large predators," says Trottier. "Wolves, like all predators, have the potential to be dangerous. That doesn't mean we should be afraid of them. Instead, we should give them the same healthy respect as we do bears, cougars and other large predators."

If a wolf is acting unusually bold or aggressive contact a conservation officer as soon as possible. More information about wolves can be found on the Ministry of Environment website at www.environment.gov.sk.ca. Go to Programs and Services, click on Wildlife and then on Problem Wildlife.