Public Service Announcement
Wolf Warning Issued for Happy Valley-Goose Bay
Information for the Public
Release Date: October 01, 2019
The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay is advising residents that it is very much aware of the ongoing concern of a wolf in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area. Town Officials along with Wildlife Officials have been monitoring the situation.
Residents of Happy Valley-Goose Bay are advised that Conservation Officers have confirmed the presence of a wolf in the community that has been frequenting backyards and trails. Officers are monitoring the wolf’s movement in the community and taking appropriate action. Officials have identified some of the wolf’s travel routes and are focused on these areas. Signs have been posted and it is important that people abide by the signage and not enter these areas.
The public is reminded that wildlife that is habituated to human food sources such as garbage, can lose their natural fear of people, and this increases the safety risk to both people and pets. Residents are encouraged to take appropriate steps, including keeping pets inside or under close supervision and properly storing garbage to avoid attracting wild animals near homes where the animals can pose a risk to public safety.
Conservation officers located a deceased dog during patrols over the weekend. The remains were consistent with those of a wolf kill. Accordingly, the department advises pet owners, especially those living adjacent to wooded areas, to protect their animals by keeping them indoors or in confined areas. Wolves have been known to occasionally attack small to medium-sized pets.
The season for wolf shooting is closed and opens on October 15th, and it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 1,000 meters of a school, playground or athletic field or 300 meters of a dwelling.
Any individual transporting a firearm must have completed a hunter education course, possess a valid hunting license, and handle the firearm with reasonable care and safety for other persons.
If anyone encounters a wolf within town :
o Never approach or crowd the animal;
o Give the animal an escape route;
o If the animal approaches, be loud /aggressive – wave your arms, shout;
o Do not run away, back away slowly.
Councillor Joe Tremblett, Chair of the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay’s Enforcement & Emergency Services Committee stated:
“The health and safety of our residents is the number one priority. The Town encourages residents to call Wildlife Officials at 897-7116 when they spot the Wolf. We are encouraging residents not to rely solely on information posted on social media.”
Wildlife Officials encourage anyone sighting a wolf in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay area in the coming days to contact:
North West River Forestry and Wildlife District Office at 709-897-8479
or after hours at 709-897-7116.