Discovery Island reopens 8 months after a family’s close encounter with wolf

Discovery Island reopens 8 months after a family's close encounter with wolf
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The Discovery Island wolf.

Discovery Island has reopened for day-use only, eight months after a family reported a close encounter with the area’s resident wolf.

The provincial park, which is east of Oak Bay, was closed after a family of four said they had a close encounter with the lone coastal grey wolf. They were cornered near Sea Bird Point, away from the park portion of the island. The family was rescued and not injured in the incident.

At the time, the family said they had their dog with them, which caught the attention of the wolf. The dog was not permitted to be on the island.

After the encounter, the B.C. BC Conservation Officer Service recommended the island be shut down to protect the public and the wolf, who had been in the area for about four years. Officials said the wolf was showing signs of curiosity but was not aggressive.

On May 29, the province announced Discovery Island was open for day-use only and no overnight camping is allowed at this time. Dogs and other pets are not allowed Discovery Island Provincial Park and anyone who brings them may be fined or penalized.

BC Parks said wolves are usually secretive and will run away when they see people. However, they can become habituated and may approach camping areas, and park visitors.

Aggressive wild animals can be reported to the Conservation Officer Service 24-hour hotline toll free at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).

Alexa HuffmanAlexa Huffman

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