Written by Mike Aiken
Kenora residents are reporting more wolf sightings this fall. While deer populations are in decline outside city limits, there’s still lots of them in town. As a result, Norm Hissa of the MNR says residents near wooded areas should be more careful when walking their pets.
“Deer numbers peaked out on the landscape in the Kenora area — in the whole region for that matter — in 2007 and 2008, and they’ve steadily declined since then. But deer numbers in town still remain relatively high within city limits,” he said.
Feeding deer and bears will also attract more wolves to your area, he said.
“So, with wildlife, people should use common sense and be cautious, especially if your property backs up or is near to wooded areas where wildlife can travel. Don’t feed or attract wildlife, like deer or bears to your property. Concentrating deer may attract wolves to the area,” he added.
With more wolf sightings in the City of Kenora, Norm Hissa from the Robertson Road office says residents shouldn’t be feeding deer or bears in the area, and he suggests pet owners should be especially careful around dusk.
“Wolves may view smaller dogs or cats as prey. Larger dogs may be viewed as competitors, because wolves are very territorial,” he noted.
This means you may want to keep an eye on your dog or cat, if you’re letting them out first thing in the morning, or at sunset.
“That’s when wolves may learn the habits people have. So, keep a close eye on your pet,” he added.
Wolf sightings in Kenora have some residents feeling a bit nervous. After recent sightings in the north end, residents are advised to watch their pets more closely. Norm Hissa from the Robertson Road office also offered these suggestions.
“Don’t feed them. If they get habitualized to humans and their obtaining food, they’ll lose their fear. Keep your distance and don’t approach them,” he concluded.