As most Coloradans know already, formal wolf reintroduction is underway. And while the chances of encountering a wolf on the trail are extremely low as wolves tend to avoid human interaction entirely, it’s important to know how to react if one is spotted.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, those who encounter a wolf should proceed with extreme caution, following careful steps to avoid a potentially dangerous interaction.

First, never approach the wolf. Because wolves are highly unlikely to engage in aggressive behavior toward humans, the first important step is to ensure the wolf has a clear path of escape. It’s also worth noting that if a wolf is feeding or with pups, it may be more likely to become defensive. Be aware of how the wolf is behaving and whether or not one of these factors may be at play. The presence of a domestic canine can also be a factor that contributes to more aggressive behavior.

Throughout the entire encounter, maintain eye contact with the wolf so that you’re able to monitor its behavior. This will also help the wolf know that it’s been spotted. Talk calmly and firmly to the wolf. This is typically enough to cause the wolf to retreat from the situation.

If the wolf maintains an interest and there’s a shelter or vehicle nearby that could provide a barrier between you and the animal, slowly back away to that safety net – never run in order to avoid prompting a chase and attack response.

If retreat is not an option, appear larger – raise your arms, open your jacket, and stand on an elevated object such as a rock. This type of behavior can result in the wolf viewing you as a stronger adversary.

At this point, if the wolf continues to show signs of aggression or predatory behavior, start to become more aggressive yourself. Yell at the wolf and clap loudly. If you have a walking stick or backpack with you, consider swinging it through the air.

As noted, it’s highly unlikely that an encounter will continue to escalate if these steps are followed. That being said, if a wolf starts to growl or bare its teeth, brace yourself for a potential fight. Utilize all non-lethal deterrents, including the deployment of bear spray or the use of an air horn.

At the point where an attack seems imminent, fight back like your life depends on it. If this escalates to a hands-on defense scenario, the wolf’s underbelly and face are two points of weakness that can be struck or jabbed with sharp objects.

Part of preventing an encounter of this nature with a wolf means taking preventative steps while on the trail. This includes making noise to avoid surprising an animal, carrying an object that can help scare an animal off – such as a large stick, and keeping all pets on a leash or in close proximity and under voice command where allowed. Dogs are known to instigate negative encounters with wildlife, including wolves, meaning it’s crucial to be a responsible pet owner while on the trail.

Killing wolves as an outdoor recreator is illegal in Colorado unless it’s a true self-defense scenario. Undoubtedly, some will consider bringing a firearm along for safety while in wolf country, but this type of weapon should only be used if no other options are available and if a life-or-death encounter is imminent. If a firearm is used against a wolf, expect the decision to do so to be highly scrutinized by authorities seeking to determine if that use was legitimate.

The bottom line is that wolf interactions with humans are expected to be very rare, even more rare that those interactions are negative. But, wolves are in Colorado now and their numbers will be growing. Know what to do and remain cool and collected if an encounter does occur.

Report encounters to your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office.

Read more about living with wolves here.

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