Dalton Highway Workers Injured In Roadside Wolf Incident

Two Dalton Highway workers almost became reverse roadkill in an incident with a wolf. Here’s more from Alaska Public Media:

Troopers spokesman Austin McDaniel said the attack occurred as the motorists – both Alaskans – were outside their camper and examining it. Multiple other commercial vehicles were stopped in the area at the time. …

McDaniel said that the black wolf was showing behavior consistent with having been fed by motorists prior to Tuesday’s incident – including a lack of fear of humans.

“The wolf would stop at vehicles, kind of look like he was expecting food or some type of handout from the vehicle before proceeding on to the next vehicle,” McDaniel said.

And some additional details from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers dispatch:

AK24083772

Location: Coldfoot

Type: Wildlife Attack

Dispatch Text:

On August 19, 2024, at 3:22pm, Alaska Wildlife Troopers were advised of a wolf attack at mile 37 of the Dalton Highway resulting in injury to two motorists. Investigation revealed a wolf bit the two motorists in their lower extremities while they were stopped in a construction zone and out of their vehicle while waiting for the pilot car. The wolf fled into the woods after being shot at by another motorist and is not believed to have been struck. Both individuals received puncture wounds and are receiving medical care in Fairbanks. AWT was unable to locate the wolf in the area later the same day. ADF&G has been notified of the attack.

Alaska Wildlife Troopers would like to remind people of the dangers of feeding wildlife. Even though these individuals were not feeding the wolf, it was observed to be exhibiting behavior indicative of having been fed by other motorists. Feeding wildlife is not only dangerous but also illegal and punishable with a fine: Feeding of game Sec 5 AAC 92.230.