Wildlife authorities in the province are pleased with reports of unusual canids, such as coyotes and wolves, as they work to monitor and gain insights into the presence of these animals on the island and in Labrador.
Recently, Nikita Compton shared images online of a small group of animals near Goose Arm, sparking curiosity about whether they were a hybrid of coyotes and dogs or possibly coyotes and wolves.
While determining the exact identity of these animals without testing is challenging, wildlife officials aim to enhance their understanding of the overall canid population.
According to the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands, the province once had a distinct Newfoundland wolf subspecies that became extinct in the 1930s. However, Labrador gray wolves have been more recently observed on the island, with documented cases in 2008 and 2012.
Since 2013, the Wildlife Division has been studying the movement of these animals. Genetic analysis of around 500 canid carcasses from the province revealed a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry in five animals, while four were confirmed as Labrador wolves.
Further research is ongoing with 427 samples collected from dead animals between 2023 and 2025 awaiting genetic testing results.
While it is indicated that wolves on the island have likely interbred with coyotes, resulting in diluted wolf genetics due to the larger coyote population, the genetic background of a coyote can be challenging to determine visually.
The department encourages hunters and trappers to submit coyote and wolf carcasses for analysis to gather information on the impact of coyote colonization and the movement of wolves from Labrador to the island.
In the event of encountering a coyote or wolf, it is advised to remain calm, avoid running, make noise to deter the animal, and slowly back away if it approaches. Public safety reminders emphasize that these animals are typically not aggressive towards humans.
The ongoing interest in understanding the canid population presents an opportunity to contribute to wildlife research in the province. Hunters and trappers in Labrador are urged to report canid carcasses to the Wildlife Division.
Lastly, it is emphasized that maintaining a safe distance and not encouraging contact or feeding of wild animals is essential when encountering coyotes or wolves.