The area closure for the Ä’äy Chù (Slims River) Valley in Kluane National Park and Reserve, due to a wolf showing aggression and habituation, has been LIFTED.
Over the past two weeks, Parks Canada staff in Kluane National Park and Reserve conducted a thorough investigation into multiple reports of a lone, juvenile wolf following people and making contact with a person and property in the Canada Creek area of the Ä’äy Chù (Slims River) Valley.
The investigation included interviews with reporting parties, analysis of photos and videos from wildlife camera data and visitors, and direct observation. Trained staff located and identified the wolf based on its unique physical characteristics, presence in areas consistent with reported incidents, and demonstration of the same concerning behaviour. The wolf was humanely put down this past weekend.
Parks Canada takes the protection of our wildlife very seriously and our staff work hard to avoid these situations and reduce human-caused wildlife mortality. Putting down an animal is a very difficult decision for Parks Canada’s staff, who work extremely hard to protect these animals. Wolves are integral to the ecosystem and hold cultural significance for First Nations. This action is only taken in situations of absolute necessity where there is evidence that visitor safety is at risk. Parks Canada is working with the Government of Yukon in conducting a necropsy and rabies testing of this wolf.
While human-wolf conflict is extremely rare, this wolf’s behaviour is consistent with that of wolves highly habituated and conditioned to human food and garbage. Visitors are reminded that keeping wildlife wild is a shared responsibility – we all have a role to play in ensuring wildlife do not access human food, garbage or other attractants.
Visitors to the park are always encouraged to be prepared, carry deterrents such as an airhorn and bear spray, and know how to use them. Dogs must be kept on a leash and under physical control at all times or consider leaving your dog at home, especially when visiting the backcountry. Report wildlife sightings to Parks Canada staff at a Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre or by calling 867-634-5134, and for emergencies, call 780-852-3100 (24 hrs).