Friday, March 29, 2024

Vancouver Coastal Island wolves spotted at Royal Roads University campus

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The campus of Royal Roads University (RRU) is home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, Canadian geese and more.

Recently, however, a new, and possibly more dangerous addition has been spotted on the grounds.

In a release Monday, RRU announced the Vancouver Coastal Island wolf had recently been seen and heard on campus. Recent sightings had also placed the wolves in the Sooke area.

https://twitter.com/RoyalRoads/status/1498342355082039299

A subspecies of the grey wolf, the Vancouver Coastal Island wolf, is found throughout Northern Vancouver Island. 

“Royal Roads’ campus is home to a number of the island’s wildlife,” says Royal Roads CFO Cheryl Eason. 

“Within the campus’ old growth forest you might spot cougars year-round, or black bears most summers. By following some simple safety guidelines, we can share this beautiful place with wildlife.”

According to the BC Conservation Service, wolves are shy and usually avoid humans. However, they may attack off-leash dogs.

“For your dog’s safety, you must keep them on leash at Royal Roads,” says RRU Safety and Environment Officer Richard Doyle. 

“This rule is more important now than ever to follow.  We want your canine companions to be safe. It’s also important to keep small children within arm’s reach.”

Back in August of last year, a similar warning was issued by RRU after a suspected wolf was spotted at Esquimalt Lagoon.

Anyone who encounters an aggressive wolf should call the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-925-7277.

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