Wildlife officials in Newfoundland and Labrador are pleased with the reports of uncommon canids, such as coyotes and wolves, as they strive to monitor and gain a deeper understanding of these animals’ presence across the region.
Recently, attention was drawn to the possibility of wolves on the island when Nikita Compton shared images online of a small group of animals near Goose Arm, sparking curiosity about their identity – could they be a hybrid of coyote and dog, or even coyote and wolf?
While confirming the animals’ exact species without testing is challenging, wildlife officials aim to enhance their knowledge of the overall canid population. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands revealed that a Newfoundland wolf, considered distinct from the Labrador wolf, 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 in the province revealed five animals with a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry, while four animals were confirmed as Labrador wolves. Further genetic testing is pending results from 427 samples collected between 2023 and 2025.
According to department staff, wolves on the island have likely interbred with coyotes, with wolf genetics expected to remain diluted within the canid population due to the larger coyote population. Identifying the genetic background of a coyote solely by appearance is challenging, as coyotes vary naturally in size, color, and body proportions.
Encouraging interest in the canid mystery, there is an opportunity to contribute to ongoing research on animal life in the province. Hunters and trappers are incentivized to submit coyote and wolf carcasses, providing valuable information on the impact of coyote colonization on the island and the migration of wolves from Labrador.
To enhance the detection of animals with wolf genetic ancestry, efforts are being made to increase canid samples from Labrador. Wildlife officials also urge hunters and trappers in Labrador to report canid carcasses to the Wildlife Division.
Regarding encounters with coyotes or wolves, provincial wildlife advises the public that these animals are rarely aggressive towards humans. It is crucial not to provoke contact or feed wild animals. If faced with a coyote or wolf, individuals should remain calm, avoid running, make noise to deter the animal, and appear larger by waving arms. If the animal persists, continue making noise while slowly moving away.
It is essential to stay informed about wildlife encounters and follow safety precautions when in proximity to wild animals.