RCMP in Prince Rupert are reminding the public to be aware of wolves in the community and they have responded to 19 calls so far this year.
Since January 1st, 2015 more than a dozen wolf-related calls have been answered by RCMP and the BC Conservation Officer Service in and around Prince Rupert. According to police, these sightings have been in urban areas and in some cases the wolves have acted in an aggressive manner.
“Currently the RMCP continues to work with conservation officers and are looking at potential solutions to resolve the wolf issue,” stated Cst. Matt Ericson, spokesman for the Prince Rupert RCMP. “Although wolves may seem intimidating in most circumstances they are more afraid of you. However there are some simple precautions that community members can take to deter wolves from urban areas. While we understand that there is a concern, we ask that community members DO NOT take matters into their own hands, and to call police or conservation in the event of a wolf sighting."
Residents are encouraged to remove all potential food sources from outdoor areas, supervise young children when outdoors and not leave small pets unattended. In the very unlikely event that you are attacked by a wolf, RCMP encourage you to fight back. Try to remain standing and use rocks, sticks, tools, and your hands to fend off the animal. Keep the animal away from your head and neck area.
If you spot a wolf, you are encouraged to call contact the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-953-7277 or call your local RCMP detachment.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
