Provincial wildlife authorities are pleased with reports of uncommon canids, such as coyotes and wolves, as they persist in monitoring and seeking a deeper understanding of these animals’ presence in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Recently, the spotlight turned to the possibility of wolves on the island when Nikita Compton shared online images of a small group of animals near Goose Arm, sparking curiosity. Speculation arose whether these creatures could be a hybrid of coyote and dog, or even a mix of coyote and wolf.
While it remains challenging for wildlife officials to definitively identify the animals without testing, they aim to enhance their comprehension of the overall canid population.
The Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, overseeing the Wildlife Division, mentioned in an email that a Newfoundland wolf, believed to be distinct from the Labrador wolf, is extinct since the 1930s. Nevertheless, Labrador gray wolves have been more recently sighted on the island, with documented cases in 2008 and 2012.
Since 2013, the Wildlife Division has been investigating the movement of these animals, obtaining genetic results from approximately 500 wolf and coyote carcasses collected in the province. Out of these, five animals displayed a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry, while four were confirmed as Labrador wolves from the island.
Additionally, 28 samples indicated some level of wolf DNA present. There are 427 samples from deceased animals collected between 2023 and 2025, awaiting genetic testing results.
According to the staff, genetic evidence suggests that wolves on the island have interbred with coyotes. However, considering the significantly larger coyote population, it is likely that wolf genetics will remain diluted within the island’s canid community.
They also highlighted the challenge in determining a coyote’s genetic background based on appearances alone, as coyotes vary naturally in size, coloring, and body proportions. The staff emphasized that a coyote looking atypical does not necessarily indicate a recent hybrid with a wolf or dog.
The interest in the canid mystery is encouraged as it can contribute to ongoing research on animal life in the province. Hunters and trappers are incentivized to submit coyote and wolf carcasses, providing valuable information about the impact of coyote colonization on the island and the potential pathways for wolves from Labrador.
Efforts are underway to increase the number of canid samples from Labrador to enhance the detection of animals with wolf genetic ancestry.
In Labrador, hunters and trappers are also urged to collaborate with the Wildlife Division concerning canid carcasses, emphasizing the broader scope beyond the island.
Regarding encounters with coyotes or wolves, provincial wildlife advises the public that these animals seldom exhibit aggression towards humans. However, it is crucial not to encourage contact or feed wild animals.
In the event of encountering a coyote or wolf, individuals are advised to remain calm, avoid running, and make noise if the animal approaches, such as yelling or clapping. Making oneself appear larger by waving arms is recommended. If the animal persists, one should continue making noise while slowly backing away.
Lastly, it is recommended to download the free CBC News app for push alerts on CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Visit their landing page for more information.
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