Wolf warning issued for beaches near Tofino, B.C.

A Vancouver Island coastal wolf photographed by wildlife photographer and cinematographer Ryan Tidman. (Courtesy: Ryan Tidman)

Parks Canada is warning visitors to a national park reserve near Tofino, B.C., about recent wolf sightings in the area.

The federal agency issued the warning about coastal wolves on Thursday, urging visitors to the Long Beach area of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to be vigilant about avoiding encounters with the elusive predators.

Parks Canada says visitors should keep children close while in the park, and keep dogs on leashes or leave them at home.

Hikers and beachgoers are advised to travel in groups and make noise, staying alert and watching for signs of wolf activity, such as tracks and droppings.

Anyone who encounters a wolf in the area is urged not to run away and not to crouch down low to the ground.

“Pick up small children, and keep the group together,” the warning says. “Back away slowly, maintaining eye contact with the animal as you leave. Yell, wave your arms, look large; and if you have one, use an air horn.”

If a wolf approaches, visitors are advised to throw sticks or stones at the animal. If the wolf becomes aggressive, visitors are urged to use bear spray or any other means available to fight off an attack.

Parks Canada says the native population of coastal wolves on Vancouver Island has been growing since the 1990s, when they began to recolonize the island’s western shores.

While smaller than most inland species, the coastal wolves, or sea wolves, will weigh approximately 45 kilograms when fully grown and can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h when running over short distances, the agency says.

Parks Canada says the wolf warning for the Long Beach area will remain in place until further notice.