Through the Eyes of a Canid: How Human Activity Can Destroy Wildlife
On our way to Algonquin Park, we noticed something out of the ordinary. At the base of a snow bank along highway 60, near Dwight, there was a dark figure curled up. As we’re both wildlife photographers, we instinctively stopped to investigate. To our surprise, we soon discovered it was maybe an Eastern Coyote, or an Eastern Wolf (aka Algonquin Wolf) lying down, seemingly resting in a peculiar spot. Then, our hearts sank when we realized it had been injured. We couldn't help but wonder how long it had been there, scared and suffering. Was this an unfortunate result of someone hitting it with their vehicle and then quickly driving away? Not checking on the animal? What if it was someone’s dog? The senselessness of such a situation weighed heavily on our minds.
We pulled up quickly, parking in front of the wounded canid to shield it from any passing snowplows or traffic. The animal tried lifting itself upwards over the snow bank – that’s when we noticed its injuries were predominantly the back legs. As suspected, it appeared as though it had been struck by a vehicle while crossing the highway. The wounded animal huddled back at the base of the snow bank, curled up in a ball, and watched us with a mournful gaze.
In a desperate attempt to save the animal, we called the emergency line of Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Rosseau, Ontario Canada. Many people know AVWS is an incredible organization that works tirelessly to save injured and orphaned animals. Their dedicated team of volunteers, staff, and veterinarians provide the highest standard of care for every animal they come in contact with. Within minutes, Mike Cardy was immediately dispatched with a large crate to bring the animal back to their facility for further examination.
Despite the tireless work of the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, the injuries were too severe to be saved and ultimately it had to be humanely euthanized. After examining the animal, they concluded she was a young female who was slightly underweight and had healthy teeth. To verify the species, they took a couple vials of her blood for analysis. The Algonquin Wolf is a part of the canine family, created by hybridization between the Eastern Wolf, Grey Wolf and Coyote. They’re larger than a coyote, but smaller than a Grey Wolf, making it hard to distinguish through sight alone due to its similar colouring and size. To make sure about an Algonquin’s identity, genetic data is needed for proper identification.
It is heartbreaking that such an unfortunate incident has occurred, leaving us wondering what could have been done differently to avoid this tragedy. We encourage everyone to take action when they come across wildlife in need or struggling, and to embody the simple values of being a good human. Every kind act has an impact.
According to reports from a local resident, this female canid has been seen around the area and was allegedly being fed by some residents. This experience has also highlighted the importance of not approaching or attempting to feed wild animals, even if they appear distressed. This behaviour may have prompted the animal to attempt crossing the busy highway too often, leading to its collision with a car. By engaging in the unnatural activity of feeding wildlife, we may affect their behaviour in ways we don't understand. We encourage people not to feed or distract wild animals in order to avoid tragic results like this one.
Best Practices for Rescuing Injured Wildlife
Prior to encountering an injured animal, take the time to research nearby wildlife rehabilitation centers and store their emergency contact details in your phone. Taking such precautionary steps can help ensure that these creatures receive the necessary care quickly and safely! Additionally, please understand the following:
1. Do not approach the injured animal - keep a safe distance and never attempt to touch or handle it without proper guidance from trained professionals. Wild animals in pain or distress may act out aggressively when approached, potentially leading to harm.
2. Contact a wildlife expert or wildlife rehabilitation center such as Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, or reach out to your local police, fire department, animal control center, fish and game warden, conservation officers, or another wildlife professional for assistance. Add these contact numbers to your phone and have them readily available for any future incidents.
3. Provide details about the location of the animal and its condition to help responders locate it quickly.
4. If possible, keep an eye on the animal from a distance to ensure that it doesn’t put itself in further danger.
5. Exercise caution if taking photos to document the injuries – make sure that the flash is off and don’t get too close as to limit disruption caused to their environment and comfort level.
6. Educate yourself about native wildlife species in your area so that you can be better prepared in such circumstances in future.
7. Have empathy for these creatures while also acknowledging their sometimes unpredictable behaviours - remember every creature deserves respect and care.
We must do better for our wild animal friends – even if we cannot save them all – by respecting their space and understanding that feeding wildlife is never a good idea. Further, respect the speed limits throughout Algonquin Park and beyond. We all seem to be living in a fast-paced and distracted world now, and many incidents can be avoided by simply slowing down and being observant.
Let us approach nature with kindness and empathy, so that we can help protect these beautiful creatures for future generations to marvel over.
Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary animal care line: 705-644-4122
(Yes, add this # to your phone)
*UPDATE* To all those asking how to help even more, we encourage you to send them a little donation if you can. Seriously, anything helps!
www.aspenvalley.ca/ways-to-donate
- Jesse & Susan
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