Wildlife Notebook
These are the most familiar of our large predatory mammals, along with the Black Bear. While many people may not have seen any of them in the wild, everyone knows about foxes, wolves, Coyotes, bobcats and "mountain lions". The most frequently seen species are Red Foxes and Coyotes. Sometimes you might hear the howling of Coyotes, or the haunting chorus of Grey Wolves.
Others in this group are much less likely to be seen, particularly the cats, and the Swift Fox, which are found very locally and in small numbers. Although unseen by humans, they all play an important roll in nature's balance.
During the last century human activities have affected the population and range of all of these animals. Some have prospered and increased in numbers, others have retreated or disappeared altogether. We have trapped them for furs and killed them as vermin and threats to our own safety.
First Nations people, living close to the land, have always had a more balanced relationship with furred predators, While using them as a resource, they also respected them. Early settlers and following generations had a much less tolerant attitude. Today, new understanding of the role of predators has led to more tolerance and appreciation, including efforts to re-introduce the Swift Fox.
Domesticated dogs and cats are not native to our province, but released or abandoned animals do occur in the wild. Feral ("wild") dogs are uncommon, but may sometimes form small packs. Pet and feral cats have a much greater impact on wildlife, in particular on birds. Many thousands of songbirds are killed by cats every year.
Grey wolf | Arctic fox | Cougar | Red fox | Coyote | Bobcat | Swift fox | Lynx
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