Discovery Island is open for day use, BC Parks announced Monday.
The 61-hectare, island park off Oak Bay, is temporarily open for day use only, while the restriction on overnight continues. The northern portion of Discovery Island, adjacent Chatham Island and some of the smaller islands nearby are First Nations Reserve lands.
BC Parks closed Discovery Island Park in September 2016, saying it would last to spring 2017, to protect a lone wolf after an interaction with a family. The wolf had inhabited the island for about four years at that point, but was closed after an interaction with visitors.
The island park was also closed in 2012 for public safety reasons.
The ban on dogs and domestic pets continues within Discovery Island Provincial Park – violators may be subject to fines or penalties. Park Rangers and Conservation Officers will be patrolling the area to facilitate public education and monitoring.
If you encounter an aggressive wild animal, report it by calling the Conservation Officer Service 24-hour hotline toll free at 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP) or #7277 on the Telus Mobility Network.
Parks also released a list of wolf safety guidelines.
What to do if a wolf approaches
The greater the space between people and wolves, the safer it is for both of them. If a wolf appears and acts unafraid or aggressive, take the following action as soon as you notice the animal:
Begin scare tactic immediately, well before the wolf is within 100 metres. Do not allow the wolf to approach any closer than 100 metres.
Raise your arms and wave them in the air to make yourself appear larger. Use noise makers (i.e. air horns), throw sticks, rocks and sand at the wolf, to scare wolves away.
When in a group, act in unison to send a clear message to the wolves they are not welcome.
If the wolf displays aggressive behaviour, back away slowly, do not turn your back on the wolf.
Use pepper spray if you have it and the skills to use it safely. Be aware of the range and operating conditions of the product you are using.
– BC Parks