Wolf hybrid on the loose sparks warning, California cops say. ‘Do not approach’

UPDATE: Shadow, a wolf hybrid spotted near Sebastopol, has been found and returned to his owner, North Bay Animal Services said on Facebook.

The original story is below.

A sighting of a wolf hybrid near a California coastal community had prompted a stern warning for residents, authorities reported.

“If spotted, DO NOT APPROACH,” Sebastopol police advised Sunday, Nov. 5, on Facebook. “Contact law enforcement immediately and provide the location and direction of travel.”

The wolf hybrid is dark gray or black with yellow eyes, police said. It was last seen heading south of the Highway 12 bridge on the eastern edge of Sebastopol.

Police, California Highway Patrol officers, California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials and North Bay Animal Services are all looking for the animal.

Police did not say why they are seeking the wolf hybrid, but ownership of first-generation wolf hybrids is restricted in California.

Later generations of wolf hybrids are legal to own with no permits required.

Police advise anyone spotting the wolf hybrid to call 911 or state Fish and Wildlife officers at 707-428-2002.

Sebastopol is about 55 miles north of San Francisco.

This story was originally published November 6, 2023 at 7:23 AM.