Wolf (Canis lupus)
Sportsmen hunting other big game often take Wolves as an incidental species. There is, however, a growing recognition that the Wolf is a magnificent trophy in its own rite, and as such there is increasing interest in hunting them in Alberta.
Wolf populations are high throughout the boreal, foothills and mountain regions of Alberta. Alberta Wolves can reach 120 pounds in weight and vary in color spectrum from light gray to night black. The pelt of an Alberta Wolf, taken in its winter prime, is a beautiful reminder of a great hunt for this shy and rarely seen trophy.
Wolves may be hunted by the holder of a Wolf license (available for a nominal fee) from the opening of any big game season until the end of the spring Bear season. Some outfitters offer winter Wolf hunts, when the pelts are at their best and no other hunting seasons are open.
Baiting Wolves is legal and effective. Also, during late February and early March, Wolves may be "howled in" during the mating season. Wolves in hearing range of a predator call will often respond, and can be lured in close to hunters.
There is no limit on Wolves, but they are subject to CITES regulations. Hunters must wait for the issuance of a CITES permit and have the trophy shipped (see www.cites.org).
Coyote (Canis latrans)
Alberta's coyotes offer great opportunities for both the long-range varmint shooter and the predator caller. Coyotes are abundant in the province, especially in the prairie, parkland and foothills regions. On most days a hunter will experience multiple opportunities to bag "Old Wily". There is no limit on coyotes in Alberta and pelts taken during the winter prime season are thick and well-furred.
In general, Coyotes may be hunted year round on private lands and from October 1 until February 28 on public lands. During open big game seasons, the Coyote hunter must possess a big game license valid for that open season and management unit. The serious Coyote hunter should wait until the end of the big game season (usually November 30) when pelts are at their best and other hunters are not as active. An Alberta Wolf /Coyote game license is required.