If more steps aren’t taking to protect the Algonquin Wolf population, it is likely to become endangered.
That’s according to a report by the Environment Commissioner of Ontario Dianne Saxe, which recommends banning the hunting and trapping of the threatened species across Ontario. Algonquin Wolves are found in an area which spans from Peterborough County up to North Bay. Saxe says there could be less than 250 adult Algonquin wolves left in total. Her report states a minimum population of 500 individuals is needed for long-term survival.
The biggest threat to Algonquin wolves is hunting and trapping, which Saxe says should be banned, offering the species full-protection under Ontario’s Endangered Species Act. While the species is protected from these activities in some areas around provincial parks, these measures won’t be enough to restore the population. She acknowledges full-protection could affect the livelihoods of hunters and trappers, but says the government should not cater to the interests of a small group of people.
Saxe says the loss of the species would have a critical effect on ecosystem health and biodiversity. These predators manage the population of their prey, which allows plants and trees to thrive, giving homes to other species.
With files from Andreas Pandikiu.