Wolf & Coyote Safety in Canada – Know the Difference, Respect the Risks

Wolves are elusive and rarely seen. Coyotes, on the other hand, have adapted to live among us—even in cities. Whether you’re hiking a remote trail or walking your dog in Stanley Park, knowing how to respond to these wild canines is essential.

Wolves are shy, pack-oriented animals that avoid human contact. Most Canadians will never see one in the wild. Encounters are exceptionally rare and typically non-aggressive—though their size and strength demand respect.

Coyotes, by contrast, are highly adaptable. Found across much of Canada, they’re especially visible in urban green spaces, including Vancouver’s Stanley Park and other Lower Mainland neighbourhoods. While they typically avoid people, their comfort around humans has increased in recent years—with serious consequences.

Coyotes live in Stanley Park year-round. You may never notice them—but they notice you.

In spring and early summer, coyotes are raising pups. They’re more visible during the day, more protective, and more defensive toward dogs. Certain trails may be closed during this period to protect den sites.

In early autumn, the young begin to leave their families and establish their own territories. This pup dispersal season increases the likelihood of sightings and bold behaviour.

And in 2021, things escalated. Over several months, more than dozens of people were bitten. Coyotes became aggressive toward pets and adults—even attacking in daylight. Officials determined the cause: the animals had become food-habituated due to human feeding.

The result:

• Full park closures
• 11 coyotes euthanized
• Financial losses to businesses
• Heightened public concern

Feeding coyotes, intentionally or accidentally, teaches them to associate people with food. This leads to more boldness, more conflict, and ultimately more destroyed animals.

• Feeding wildlife in Vancouver parks can lead to fines of up to $500.
• Leaving food on trails, offering snacks, or failing to properly dispose of garbage all count.

If you see a coyote:

• Do not run
• Pick up small children and dogs immediately
• Maintain eye contact
• Stand tall and yell loudly
• Wave your arms or a jacket
• Back away slowly while facing the animal

If a coyote approaches you aggressively:

• Be assertive
• Make noise
• Throw sticks or rocks
• Never crouch, turn your back, or retreat quietly

Coyotes have been known to snatch small dogs—even leashed ones—especially near den sites.

• Keep dogs leashed in all areas except official off-leash zones
• Stay on main trails
• Avoid dense brush where dens may be located
• Keep children within arm’s reach in coyote-active parks

Vancouver isn’t alone. Aggressive coyotes have been reported in:

• Burnaby – A six-year-old girl was bitten at a music festival
• Mission – Seven attacks in 24 hours
• Richmond, North Vancouver, and Surrey – Frequent pet attacks

Most of these incidents trace back to the same cause: habituation. Feeding wild animals—even with good intentions—puts the entire community at risk.

Wolves are found in remote parts of western and northern Canada, usually travelling in packs. While they avoid humans, they can attack dogs, especially if accompanied by a person. Wolves are large—up to 50 kg—and may stand their ground if surprised.

To avoid issues in wolf country:

• Keep pets leashed
• Don’t leave food unattended in the backcountry
• Travel in groups, and make noise on trails

If a wolf approaches, the same rules as coyotes apply:

• Stand tall, make noise, do not run, and back away slowly.

This visual guide shows how far to stay from wildlife in Canada’s national parks. For bears, wolves, and cougars: at least 100 metres. For elk, moose, and sheep: at least 30 metres. Always. © Parks Canada