Black wolves, such as some seen in the Hwy. 11/ Jacob’s Hill Rd. area outside Iroquois Falls are not unusual.
MNRF Northeast Regional Outreach Specialist Bill Foy says they’re actually grey wolves, and their colours vary due to genetics.
Foy says you don’t have to be afraid of them, but as a wild animal, a wolf is unpredictable.
As with a bear, keep your distance and it will likely avoid you. Don’t turn your back and don’t run.
“Try to remain as calm as you can, and I know that can be a task, because it can be intimidating,” Foy acknowledges, “but stand tall and wave your hands, make a lot of noise and slowly kind of back away.”
Foy adds that if a wolf is posing a threat to public safety, you should call 9-1-1.
That rural area of Iroquois Falls is near the municipal landfill site. Foy says it’s a source of food for the animal, and it’s capable of finding its own natural food.
“They’ll eat a wide range of different animals. Larger animals such as moose and smaller animals, such as beavers.”
The audio of our interview posted below provides a lot more information about wolves and how to avoid conflict with them. There’s also helpful information on ontario.ca .
