With wolf reintroduction just weeks away, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has published a ‘Living with Wolves’ guide to help educate the public on best safety practices related to this apex predator. While wolves tend to mostly avoid contact with humans, signs point to members of the species being introduced into several counties where outdoor recreation is prioritized, making it crucial for those entering the backcountry to know how to act when wolves appear.

Here are a few of the tips related to wolf safety, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife:

1. While in wolf country, make lots of noise when coming or going during dusk and dawn when wolves are most active. This includes when moving about the campsite, as noises are likely to spook wolves away.
2. Never feed a wolf or make food available that could attract a wolf to where you’re at.
3. Keep livestock inside at night, closing all doors to that space to prevent wildlife, including wolves, from getting in.
4. Don’t feed pets outside, nor should you leave them unattended. It’s also important to bring pets inside at night.
5. When hiking, carry a sturdy stick and bear spray.
6. Make noise while hiking so as not to surprise wildlife.
7. Keep pets on a leash while hiking.
8. If a wolf is encountered, never approach the wolf.
   1. Instead, talk firmly to it and keep eye contact so that the animal knows its been seen.
   2. Back slowly away instead of running to avoid prompting a chase response.
   3. If retreat isn’t an option, look as big as possible.
   4. Stay upright instead of sitting down or crouching over.
   5. Put objects between yourself and the wolf.
   6. If the wolf is acting aggressively, be loud. Shout, clap, and blow your emergency whistle.
   7. If an attack seems imminent, use bear spray or swing a large stick at the wolf.
   8. If attacked, fight back and try to remain standing. A wolf’s underbelly and face are sensitive areas that can be good to strike.

Find the full ‘Living with Wolves’ brochure from Colorado Parks and Wildlife here.