Provincial wildlife authorities are pleased to receive reports of uncommon canids, including coyotes and wolves, as they persist in monitoring and seeking a better comprehension of the animals’ existence on the island and in Labrador.
Recently, attention was drawn to the possibility of wolves on the island when Nikita Compton encountered and shared images online of a small group of animals near Goose Arm, located between Deer Lake and Corner Brook, sparking discussions. Speculation arose regarding whether they were a hybrid of coyote and dog, or even coyote and wolf.
Wildlife officials mentioned that determining the identity of the animals without testing is quite challenging, but they aim to enhance their understanding of the canid population overall.
The Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, which oversees the Wildlife Division, disclosed in an email that a Newfoundland wolf, believed to be distinct from the Labrador wolf, was extinct since the 1930s. However, Labrador gray wolves have been more recently observed on the island, with recorded instances in 2008 and 2012.
Since 2013, the Wildlife Division has been researching their movements. Genetic analysis has been conducted on about 500 canid carcasses, revealing that five animals had a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry, while four animals were confirmed as Labrador wolves from the island. Additionally, 28 samples showed evidence of some level of wolf DNA.
There are 427 samples collected from deceased animals between 2023 and 2025, awaiting genetic testing results. Staff noted that wolves on the island have likely interbred with coyotes, but due to the larger coyote population, the wolf genetics are expected to remain diluted within the canid population.
The staff emphasized the challenge of identifying the genetic background of a coyote solely based on appearance, as coyotes exhibit natural diversity in size, coloring, and body proportions. They encouraged interest in the canid mystery, as it could aid ongoing research on animal life in the region.
Hunters and trappers are incentivized to submit coyote and wolf carcasses, enabling provincial staff to gather information on the impact of coyote colonization on the island and the factors facilitating wolves’ migration from Labrador. Efforts are underway to increase the number of canid samples from Labrador to enhance the detection of animals with wolf genetic heritage.
In Labrador, hunters and trappers are urged to contact the Wildlife Division regarding canid carcasses to contribute to the research efforts. It is not only about the island, but also about expanding knowledge in Labrador.
Regarding encounters with coyotes or wolves, wildlife authorities advise the public that these animals are seldom aggressive towards humans. Nevertheless, people should avoid interactions or feeding wild animals. If encountering a coyote or wolf, it is recommended to remain calm, avoid running, and make noise if the animal approaches, such as yelling or clapping. You can also make yourself appear larger by waving your arms. If the animal persists, continue making noise while slowly retreating.
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