Photo: File photo

UPDATE 12:41 P.M.

A popular section of a national park on Vancouver Island that was closed following a wolf attack last week has re-opened.

Parks Canada says Wickaninnish Beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is accessible to the public once again after being closed off for two days.

A wolf had attacked and injured a leashed dog on Thursday, following a number of close encounters with park visitors and off-leash dogs, signalling the wild animals were losing their fear of humans.

Parks Canada says in a statement that wildlife specialists worked with the BC Conservation Officer Service on Thursday and Friday to scare the wolf and restore a natural separation between the species and people.

The statement released Saturday says a temporary dog ban is still in effect, as is a wolf advisory.

Parks Canada says wolves are a vital part of the ecosystem, and if anyone encounters a wolf, they should not approach the animal, back away slowly while maintaining eye contact and making noise.

"Wolves may be encountered anywhere in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, however if these animals become accustomed to people, they are in danger of losing their wildness," the statement says.

- The Canadian Press

Wickaninnish Beach near Tofino is expected to reopen after wolf attacks closed the popular beach.

Two dogs were attacked by wolves in separate attacks last week, prompting the closure, and there have been “a number of close encounters” at the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in recent weeks, according to Parks Canada officials.

While the beach is expected to open for humans today, it will remain closed to dogs until March 30.

Parks officials say one particular wolf is causing the majority of the issues.

Visitors to the area have been asked to keep their pets on a leash and not leave food lying around. 

- With files from CTV Vancouver Island