Wolves attack deer in downtown Banff

Two wolves chased and killed a deer in the middle of the Banff townsite, prompting Parks Canada to remind residents and visitors to take appropriate precautions throughout the year.

Around 9: 40 p. m. on Aug. 11, dispatchers received a call that a deer had been attacked by wolves on Cougar Street, one block over from Banff Avenue.

No conservation officers were made available to comment on the incident, but Parks Canada spokeswoman Christina Tricomi said in an emailed statement that the wolves were seen dragging the deer along the road.

Wildlife staff arrived at the scene and removed the deer carcass.

“The wolves had fled back into the cover of the forest at that time,” she said. “The deer carcass was moved to a remote location away from the town, where it could be found by other carnivores a safe distance from human activity.”

According to the statement, the wolves didn’t exhibit any threatening behaviour toward the people who observed the incident.

It’s believed the wolves were pursuing the deer through the forested wildlife corridor immediately adjacent to the town.

The incident has led officials to remind Banff residents and visitors to be vigilant throughout the national park.

A similar incident was witnessed by visitors near Castle Junction in Banff National Park earlier this year.