What to know about wolves in midwinter

Kirsten Wisniewski | February 28, 2025

There have been a lot of wolf sightings around Cook County recently. WTIP has heard reports of wolf activity close to homes, and one attack on a dog.

Seasonal wolf behavior

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) Large Carnivore Specialist Dan Stark told WTIP about typical wolf behavior in midwinter. He said two things are at play. It is breeding season, and some single juvenile wolves “just trying to make it through the winter and find enough food to eat.” He added that mild winters can also give an advantage to prey during the winter, making finding enough food to survive tougher.

Stark said most often aggressive wolf behavior happens in the spring or summer when wolves are denning. He added that farmers see the most predation from wolves when their livestock have just had young. However, during this point in the winter, it is important to be aware of wolf activity in the area.

Safety from wolf attacks is a major concern for pet owners in the area. Stark said that there were six dog attack fatalities reported to the MN DNR last year. He recommended not allowing pets outside unsupervised, not feeding pets outside, and considering the use of wolf deterrent measures like fences or motion-sensitive lights. When a conflict with a pet happens, however, Stark said that it is safest not to try to break up a fight.

“Try to scare it away as much as you can, but don’t try to break up a fight between your dog and a wolf,” he said, “Loud noises, throwing things in their direction, pepper spray or bear spray, things like that that can potentially be used as a deterrent are also tools that folks can use.”

DNR Wolf Management Plan

Stark was part of the development of the MN DNR wolf management plan. The plan includes monitoring the state wolf population, working with local partners, and educating the public about wolves and their behavior.

The plan was created in 2022, and the population surveys conducted thus far show a stable wolf population. Stark said that the MN DNR is planning to pilot another survey based on trail cameras.

While there may currently be some additional wolf activity, Stark is not concerned. He recommended simple vigilance for those living in areas with wolf populations. He said, “I don’t think it’s something that people need to be alarmed about. It’s something that they should be aware of and and kind of take precautions.”

WTIP’s Kirsten Wisniewski spoke to MN DNR Large Carnivore Specialist Dan Stark about wolf behavior. Audio of that interview can be found below.