As many people know, there has been increased wolf activity on the island this winter. As a farmer who is dependent on a healthy ecosystem, I am delighted that this keystone species is present to help balance the delicate ecosystem.

As a farmer, it is my responsibility to protect my animals with strong fencing, electric fences, securing my animals before dark and using a myriad of non-lethal techniques. The wolves, however, have become increasingly habituated to people and residential places. Once they begin to lose their inherent fear it is very difficult to backtrack.

Seeing wildlife thrills me every time, as it does many people. However, when you interact with wildlife by allowing wolves in the open, feeding ravens or letting raccoons eat your fallen fruit, these are not isolated incidents. These are learning experiences for these highly intelligent animals and they will apply what they learn to other properties. They will start testing boundaries and exploring easier prey options like cats and livestock, because this is what we have taught them. When they come to the farm with this new knowledge they put my livelihood at risk. This also puts the wildlife at risk as many people use lethal techniques to deal with perceived problems.

As someone whose sole income is derived from growing and selling food for the island I need the wolves and other wildlife for a healthy environment but also need them to fear human settlements. When you see a wolf or other wildlife where they're supposed to be, in the forest or beach, this is an opportunity to view them, move away and teach them that is their home. When viewed near residential areas it is important to haze, never allow them access to food and teach them where their territory boundary is.

Dogs are viewed very differently by wolves. They are viewed as a territorial threat and attract wolves to defend their territory. Despite multiple signs, people continue to bring dogs to Reef Point Farm. I have been told many times by people that their dog is calm/on leash/small etc. This is only considering your dog's actions and reaction. It is not considering that you are attracting wolves to the farm and or what my livestock feel when a strange dog comes around.

Please help support local food production by not allowing any wildlife to become habituated and not bringing dogs to any farm. There will be a talk this weekend from a wildlife expert on co-existence at Linnaea Farm and I encourage anyone who has had wolf sightings or activity on their property to attend.
With gratitude,
Sara