Provincial wildlife authorities are pleased with reports of uncommon canids, such as coyotes and wolves, as they persist in monitoring and seeking deeper insights into the presence of these animals on the island and in Labrador.
Recently, attention was drawn to the possibility of wolves on the island when Nikita Compton shared online images of a small group of creatures near Goose Arm, sparking curiosity. Speculations arose about whether they were a hybrid of coyote and dog or even coyote and wolf.
Although identifying the animals without testing is challenging, wildlife officials aim to enhance their understanding of the overall canid population.
The Department of Forestry, Agriculture, and Lands of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, overseeing the Wildlife Division, revealed that a Newfoundland wolf, believed to be distinct from the Labrador wolf, has been extinct since the 1930s. However, Labrador gray wolves have more recently been sighted on the island, with cases reported in 2008 and 2012.
Since 2013, the Wildlife Division has been studying the movement of these animals. Genetic analysis of approximately 500 canid carcasses in the province has yielded results showing a mix of coyote and domestic dog ancestry in five animals. Moreover, four animals from the island were confirmed as Labrador wolves, with 28 samples showing evidence of wolf DNA.
Another 427 samples from deceased animals collected between 2023 and 2025 are awaiting genetic testing results.
According to provincial officials, the wolf population on the island is low, and genetic evidence indicates interbreeding with coyotes. However, due to the larger coyote population, the wolf genetics are likely to remain diluted within the canid population on the island.
The staff emphasized the challenge of determining the genetic background of a coyote based on appearance, as coyotes naturally vary in size, color, and body proportions. They also stressed that atypical appearances do not necessarily indicate recent wolf or dog hybridization.
Interest in understanding the canid mystery is encouraged to aid ongoing research on animal life in the province. Hunters and trappers are incentivized to submit coyote and wolf carcasses to provide insights into the impact of coyote colonization on the island and the potential pathways for wolves from Labrador to the island.
Efforts are underway to increase the number of canid samples from Labrador to improve the detection of animals with wolf genetic ancestry. Hunters and trappers in Labrador are urged to collaborate with the Wildlife Division regarding canid carcasses.
In the event of encountering a coyote or wolf, provincial wildlife advises the public that these animals are rarely aggressive towards humans. However, people should avoid encouraging contact with or feeding wild animals. If encountering a coyote or wolf, staying calm, making noise, and backing away slowly are recommended strategies.
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