Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Community Safety has confirmed the euthanization of a wolf following an uncommon incident involving the species in the province last week. According to provincial officials, a wolf attacked an individual on October 17 in a remote northern area adjacent to Highway 914. The victim, identified as a contractor for Cameco, a significant uranium mining company, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated upon returning to Cameco’s Key Lake mill site.
The Ministry’s wildlife human attack response team (WHART) is currently conducting an investigation into the incident. As part of the probe, traps were set in the vicinity of the attack, leading to the capture of the suspected wolf on Tuesday. Subsequently, the animal was euthanized and transferred to Prairie Diagnostic Services in Saskatoon for a necropsy.
While wolves are prevalent in Saskatchewan’s wooded zones, they typically steer clear of interactions with humans. The Ministry emphasized that such attacks are infrequent. The provincial government advises individuals in areas where wolves may be present to avoid attracting wildlife by refraining from leaving food or garbage, staying vigilant of their surroundings, and refraining from approaching or feeding wolves. In the event of encountering a wolf, individuals are advised not to run or turn their backs on the animal. Instead, they should face the wolf, make themselves appear larger, slowly retreat, and give the animal space to depart the area.
Anyone encountering an aggressive or unusually behaving wolf is encouraged to report the incident to the province by calling 1-800-667-7561.
