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A PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CENTER WINTER 2002

A Glimpse of How Solve a Problem, page 4 The Politics of Wolf Restoration Heat Up, page 8

“Tundra Wolf” by Archie Beaulieu Cover.winter 02 10/10/02 2:23 PM Page 3

Due to the generosity of two of WE HAVE BEEN our longtime members, we will receive $5,000 to fund our new CHALLENGED! Wolf Outreach Education Program. Our Wolf But there is a catch. Education Program For every dollar that they give us, needs your help. we need to raise one of our own. Your support will help our Outreach Education Program teach many more people about the essential role the wolf plays in keeping our wilderness wild. Please give generously! We can double the impact of every dollar that you give.

Thank you. Lori Schmidt

Please send your checks or credit card contributions to: International Wolf Center Challenge 1396 Highway 169 • Ely, MN USA 55731-8129 Call 1-800-ELY WOLF or visit our Web site at: www.wolf.org All contributions are tax-deductible.

Ready for the ultimate wolf and wildlife adventure trip?

AYLMER LAKE • NORTHWEST TERRITORIES, CANADA • AUGUST 2003 CHECK www.wolf.org FOR MORE INFORMATION IntWolf.winter 02 10/10/02 2:53 PM Page 1

THE QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER VOLUME 12, NO. 4 WINTER 2002 Features Departments 4 2 As a Matter of Fact A Pack Solves a Problem 3 From the Executive Director Observations of wolves in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge provide an exciting look at how wolves interact 11 International Wolf Center and solve problems. Notes From Home Cathy Curby 14 Tracking the Pack ynn & Donna Rogers/www.bearstudy.org L 15 Book Review 8 16 Wolves of the World Wolves and 22 Personal Encounter Western Politics 25 News and Notes As wolves near federal reclassification, the state of Idaho and counties in California, Oregon and 26 Wild Kids Wyoming have all passed anti-wolf legislation. Liz Harper A Look Beyond ynn & Donna Rogers/www.bearstudy.org 28 L

On The Cover “Tundra Wolf” by Archie Beaulieu Internationally renowned, Déné artist Archie Beaulieu was born and still lives in the community of Fort Rae, on the shores of Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories. Distributed by Nor-Art International Gallery, P.O. Box 261, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2N2 www.nor-art.com; phone: 867-920-7002; fax: 867-920-7003; toll free: (U.S. and Canada) 1-866-233-4533 Copyright Nor-Art International Gallery To purchase note cards of the cover image, please log on to www.wolf.org and click on Shop. om Brakefield T IntWolf.winter 02 10/10/02 2:53 PM Page 2

Publications Director Mary Ortiz Magazine Coordinator Carissa L.W. Knaack Consulting Editor Mary Keirstead Technical Editor L. David Mech Graphic Designer Tricia Hull

International Wolf (1089-683X) is published quarterly and copyrighted, 2002, by the International Wolf Center, 3300 Bass Lake Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55429, USA. e-mail: [email protected]. All rights reserved. Publications agreement no. 1536338 Membership in the International Wolf Center includes a subscription to International Wolf magazine, free admission to the Center, and discounts on programs and merchandise. • Lone Wolf member- ships are U.S. $30 • Wolf Pack $50 • Wolf Associate $100 • Wolf Sponsor $500 • Alpha Wolf $1000. Canada and other countries, add U.S. $15 per year for airmail postage, $7 for surface postage. Contact the International Wolf Center,

1396 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731-8129, averley Traylor

USA; e-mail: [email protected]; W phone: 1-800-ELY-WOLF Mexican wolf ( lupus baileyi) International Wolf is a forum for airing facts, ideas and attitudes about wolf- In the most recent assessment, what is the number of related issues. Articles and materials gray wolf subspecies populating North America? printed in International Wolf do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the There are five subspecies of the gray wolf in North America. The currently International Wolf Center or its board recognized subspecies are the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi), the of directors. Great Plains or buffalo wolf (Canis lupus nubilus), the Rocky Mountain or International Wolf welcomes submissions Mackenzie Valley wolf (Canis lupus occidentalis), the eastern timber wolf of personal adventures with wolves and ■ wolf photographs (especially black and (Canis lupus lycaon), and the arctic wolf (Canis lupus arctos). white). Prior to submission of other types of manuscripts, address queries What year were wolves first to Mary Ortiz, publications director. New Question International Wolf is printed entirely reintroduced into Idaho? with soy ink on recycled and recyclable paper (text pages contain 20% post- consumer waste, cover paper contains 10% post-consumer waste). We encourage you to recycle this magazine. CORRECTION The following information was omitted from the PHOTOS: Unless otherwise noted, or obvious from the caption or article text, credit for the photo on the upper left of page 7 of the Fall 2002 issue of photos are of captive wolves. International Wolf: Image courtesy of Matthew and Leann Youngbauer.

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INTERNATIONAL From the Executive Director WOLF CENTER

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nancy jo Tubbs Chair Dispersing to New Territory Dr. L. David Mech Vice Chair t our flagship interpretive center in Ely, Minnesota, and our Twin Cities office, we Dr. Rolf O. Peterson at the International Wolf Center have built a strong and impressive base. Secretary In 1985 came a cadre of volunteers who conceptualized an educational effort A Paul B. Anderson in support of wolves. They lobbied for legislative funding, oversaw construction of Treasurer the Ely facility, opened it in 1993, and guided the development of a healthy, well-staffed infrastructure. We have a strong educational program supported by management, Dr. Larry D. Anderson communications, development, retail and office functions. This heart of the Thomas T. Dwight International Wolf Center beats powerfully. Nancy Gibson From this base, the Center is ready to launch a new strategic plan that says the exis- Hélène Grimaud tence of healthy populations of wolves will become one of our important Cornelia Hutt measures of success. We also embrace as part of our mission the concept of wild lands and the importance they hold for successful wolf recovery Dr. Robert Laud and its sustainability. It is a revolutionary step, and one that takes us into Mike Phillips challenging new territory. Dr. Robert Ream In the Twin Cities we are searching for a new headquarters to house Deborah Reynolds administrative offices and space to offer education, volunteer opportu- Paul Schurke nities and other resources to the public. An outreach educator will join Teri Williams our staff to bring programs to our urban audience. In support of wolf populations, we have helped found the Wolf EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Forum for the Southern Rockies. In this partnership with organizations Walter M. Medwid Walter Medwid based in Colorado and New , the Center will launch an educational effort about the potential to recover wolf populations in the Southern Rockies— the “next best hope for wolves.” MISSION We are moving in these new directions in deliberate steps. An example is our The International Wolf recently formed partnership with retired National Park Service interpreter Norm Center advances the survival Bishop, whose efforts in Yellowstone are helping to correct misinformation about of wolf populations by wolves in the regional press. teaching about wolves, their Clearly this is an exciting, risky and rewarding time for the organization. We are relationship to wild lands and challenged to wisely allocate our resources so that we can grow our base while we thehuman role in their future. take on new outreach efforts. In Ely we will incorporate the importance of wild lands into our educational programs, renew our cornerstone Wolves and Humans exhibit Educational services and and challenge ourselves to increase visitation and retail support. In the Twin Cities, informational resources besides bringing on a new educator, we will continue to take advantage of the finan- are available at: cial, media and philanthropic resources concentrated in this area. 1396 Highway 169 The International Wolf Center stands firmly on the remarkable creativity and Ely, MN 55731-8129, USA commitment of our board of directors and staff. We will rely on them for our foundation 1-800-ELY-WOLF as we reach out. 1-218-365-4695 Our capabilities will be challenged, but we know that in rising to these new e-mail address: opportunities we will meet our mission, build our sustainability and really begin to [email protected] make a difference to populations of wolves! ■ Web site: http://www.wolf.org

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was stunned when I learned how well wolves interact to solve a A Pack I problem. In the mountains of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, three of us were watching a wolf pack. We rotated six-hour shifts, watching the with a spotting scope from a Solves a tent three-quarters of a mile from their den. The pack included eight adults and four pups. All the wolves were brown except the mother, which was white. A wolf of great importance to the pack, we Problem referred to her as Pearl.

by CATHY CURBY

When the wolf pups became old enough to stay alone, Pearl taught them that if she walked away at the speed puppies could go, they were to accompany her, but when she moved at an adult pace, they were to stay where they were. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

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A week before, Pearl had moved her pups a half-mile from the den. I don’t notice any noises or body Scientists are not sure why wolves movements. Does Pearl indicate, move their pups. Some suggest pups are moved away from filth around “Bring the pups to me”? That is the den, or to where they can practice their hunting skills. Whatever the what the babysitter wolf attempts to do. reason, such moves are common. Scientists call the new location a rendezvous site. The French word rendezvous means “all meet together.” themselves up toward the babysitter’s calm down. The babysitter (does it During the week, as the wolves face, pulling energetically on its remember it has a job to do?) trots returned from their travels, they jowls. Frequently they jump back back to the den. When it gets to discovered the pups were no longer and race around the adult wolf. Pearl, it turns to look behind, but the at the den. They searched until they Wolves don’t have hands to carry puppies aren’t there. found the rendezvous site and food to their young, so adults bring When the wolf pups became old thereafter returned there from hunts. home chunks of meat in their enough to stay alone, Pearl taught Now that you know the back- mouths and stomachs. Pups indicate them that if she walked away at the ground, come look through the spot- their hunger by mouthing an adult. speed puppies could go, they were to ting scope with me. It’s morning, a The hungrier they are, the harder accompany her, but when she moved week after the pups were moved. they mouth. If the adult has eaten at an adult pace, they were to stay The puppies have been alone for recently, it regurgitates the meat where they were. Being well trained, many hours, lying quietly within an onto the ground. the puppies didn’t follow the open patch of tall willows. I notice Eventually the puppies realize the babysitter wolf. They remained at the Pearl, heavy with milk, trotting babysitter wolf has no food, and they rendezvous site. steadily back home. The pups are certainly thirsty and hungry, but Pearl passes below the willows and arrives at the empty den. Soon another wolf trots up to Pearl and lies nearby. Because I can’t tell the brown wolves apart, I don’t know if one is male or female unless it urinates. I never discover the gender of this new wolf, so I will refer to it as the babysitter. Pearl and the brown wolf lie quietly. I don’t notice any noises or body movements. Does Pearl indicate, “Bring the pups to me”? That is what the babysitter wolf attempts to do. The babysitter trots north across low vegetation, over the steep, unstable, rough rocks of a talus slope (the fallen rocks at the base of a hill) and through dense, six-foot- high willows. When it reaches the rendezvous site, the pups run up to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service the babysitter wolf, their bodies wagging from tail to nose, and throw

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I am bouncing with excitement. The babysitter tried repeatedly, learned new skills and finally led three of the puppies to their mother.

Do the two adults communicate then s-l-o-w-l-y puts it down. The turns back. The little ’s bottom again? I cannot say, but the babysitter puppies may think this is odd, but bangs against the stones. The puppy trots back to the pups and is mobbed they follow the adult wolf. yips, the babysitter drops it, and a second time. Soon the babysitter When the puppies reach the talus the puppy runs off the rocks. again moves toward the den. This slope, however, they refuse to follow Carrying doesn’t work. time it trots only a few steps before it the adult farther. Already partway Is the babysitter wolf out of ideas? stops and looks back. The puppies across, the babysitter turns to face the It returns to the rendezvous site, scamper up, and the babysitter trots puppies, lowers its front shoulders, followed by the pups, but now it off again. They travel in this halting wags its tail, bounces up and down walks at the proper pace for puppies. manner halfway through the willows, and yips. But it is unable to entice Soon the babysitter wolf moves but then the babysitter no longer any of the puppies out onto the again, at the proper speed. The young pauses. When it reaches Pearl again, rocks, so it returns to the puppies. wolves follow it through the willows there are still no puppies. Now the babysitter stands behind and again halt at the edge of the Within minutes the babysitter a puppy, lowers its head and gently talus slope. The babysitter walks out wolf walks back to the north. Now pushes the puppy onto the rocks. onto the rocks, faces the puppies, and the puppies wag only their hips But the young wolf stumbles and jumps and yips for several minutes. and jump less forcefully. Again the runs behind the others. Pushing Finally, one pup steps onto the rocks. babysitter moves toward the den, but doesn’t work. The adult backs slowly away from this time it s-l-o-w-l-y lifts one foot, Next, the babysitter turns away the puppies. The puppy tentatively from the talus, picks up a puppy and picks its way across the stones. A second pup moves onto the talus U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service slope, and then a third pup follows.

Dominated by the Brooks Range, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat for a variety of wildlife including wolves, caribou, musk oxen, wolverines and snow geese.

6 Fall 2002 www.wolf.org IntWolf.winter 02 10/10/02 2:53 PM Page 7 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cathy Curby works as a Wildlife Interpretive Specialist at the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

When the babysitter arrives at the bone and shakes it. It looks like a dog of wolves taught me much about how end of the rocks, it continues back- playing tug-of-war. wolves interact and solve problems. wards, leading the pups. As soon as The puppy bounds over, grabbing It taught me, too, that the qualities the pups see their mother, they dash the other end of the bone. Sometimes that make a good parent, or an effec- to her and nurse. the puppy lets go of the bone and tive surrogate, are not the exclusive I am bouncing with excitement. leaps forward to grab it again. Playing property of any one species. ■ The babysitter tried repeatedly, learned this way, the adult moves backward new skills and finally led three of the pulling the puppy through the willows, This article is an abbreviated version of an inter- puppies to their mother. But one pup but gradually they drift toward the pretive program presented by Cathy Curby. The observations were made while conducting research remains back at the rendezvous site, talus slope. through a partnership between the U.S. Fish and lying inconspicuous in a shadow. When the wolves are halfway to Wildlife Service, the National Park Service and Do the adults know a pup is missing? the rocks, the babysitter changes the the University of Alaska. The complete text can be Somehow, the adults communi- rules. Now when the pup leaps up, the found at http://arctic.fws.gov/wolfstory.html. cate again, and the babysitter trots adult moves the bone just out of its back to the lone puppy. When the reach. As the babysitter backs slowly Cathy Curby, a Wildlife Interpretive adult arrives, the young wolf jumps toward the talus, it continues to shake Specialist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife and wags from tail to nose. Soon the the bone in front of the pup. But each Service, has worked at the Arctic two wolves walk to the slope, and the time the pup leaps, the babysitter National Wildlife Refuge since 1976. babysitter moves onto the rocks. As moves the bone. The pup has eyes She lives with her family in a cabin 25 miles outside of Fairbanks, Alaska. it did before, the babysitter faces only for the bone above its head. In the puppy and bounces energetically. this way, the babysitter lures the pup It tries for many minutes, but the pup across the rocks. When the pup never walks onto the rocks. notices Pearl, it abandons the bone Head drooping, the babysitter and races over to nurse energetically. returns to the willows with the I am stunned. Pearl seems to have pup, where they lie quietly for fifteen set up this whole interaction. She minutes. This is the longest the waited patiently, confident that the babysitter has stayed while trying babysitter would succeed. During the to move the puppies. Is it hoping two hours it took to bring her puppies Pearl will come? Is it thinking of home, she never intervened. And something new to try? the babysitter never gave up, stayed The babysitter rises and wanders focused on the task and overcame ynn & Donna Rogers/www.bearstudy.org through the willows. Scattered among each challenge. It even used a tool of L Pups indicate their hunger by the shrubs are pieces of bone. The sorts to distract the last puppy. This mouthing an adult. The hungrier babysitter picks up a caribou leg glimpse into the behavior of a family they are, the harder they mouth.

International Wolf W inter 2002 7 IntWolf.winter 02 10/10/02 2:53 PM Page 8 Isaac Babcock ynn & Donna Rogers/www.bearstudy.org L Monty Sloan/wolfphotography.com

by LIZ HARPER Information Specialist, International Wolf Center

s wolves near federal reclassification, the politics of wolf This combination of prime wild lands and state protection has restoration are heating up. Within the past year and a half, prompted action by people in the the state of Idaho and counties in California, Oregon and region who do not support wolf A restoration. Anti-wolf activity in Wyoming have all passed anti-wolf legislation. California and Oregon began to Siskiyou County, California, and increase in late 1999 when Defenders its sister county Klamath, Oregon, lie of Wildlife announced they were in an area of the West that contains going to co-fund a feasibility study prime wolf habitat, according to for the potential restoration of wolves Defenders of Wildlife and other and other large carnivores to the environmental groups. The Siskiyou- Siskiyou-Klamath region. In April Klamath region is one of the 2001, Defenders filed a petition with most biologically diverse areas in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, North America north of Mexico. The requesting that a portion of federal region’s wild lands and low human lands in western Klamath County population give it great potential for along with other lands in Oregon and wolf recovery. Additionally, a little- California be designated as a popula- known state Act tion segment for the gray wolf. Within affords wolves in Oregon special a month, the executive director of the protection and mandates that the Siskiyou County Farm Bureau and state encourage wolf recovery on Cattlemen’s Association had proposed Oregon’s state and federal lands. an anti-wolf ordinance for the county.

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Despite the claims of the Central Idaho Wolf Monty Sloan/wolfphotography.com Coalition, there is no evidence that wolves MasterClips are destroying big-game herds in Idaho. Isaac Babcock

In response to the proposed nance prohibits the introduction of Anti-wolf sentiment also arose ordinance, Defenders, along with gray wolves to the county. In addi- in Fremont County, Wyoming, an the California Wolf Center, presented tion, several anti-wolf groups in area that covers portions of the information on wolves and wolf Oregon have petitioned the Oregon southeastern corner of the greater recovery to the Siskiyou County Board Fish and Wildlife Commission to Yellowstone ecosystem. The county of Supervisors on November 6, 2001. remove wolves from the state list commission announced that it was In spite of Defenders’ presentation, of endangered species, and Oregon “drawing a line in the sand” when substantial press coverage after the lawmakers who oppose wolves are it came to . In meeting focused mostly on the views mobilizing to revise or repeal the March 2002, it passed resolutions of those opposed to regional wolf state’s Endangered Species Act. banning wolves and other “unaccept- recovery. At the board’s next meeting, able species” from the county. on November 13, 2001, members All of these county-level resolu- unanimously passed Resolution The combination of prime tions and ordinances are unenforce- 01-231, opposing the introduction wild lands and state able, however, as wolves are or reintroduction to Siskiyou County currently protected under the federal of “unacceptable predatory ” protection of the wolf has Endangered Species Act. Once that are “potentially harmful to man wolves are removed from federal as well as livestock.” prompted action by people protection, the laws would still be Seven months later, a similar situ- unenforceable, as wolves would be ation occurred in Klamath County, in the Siskiyou-Klamath under the state’s authority. Despite Oregon, when on June 4, 2002, the region who do not their unenforceability, the ordinances county commissioners enacted their are clear statements of what these own anti-wolf ordinance. The ordi- support wolf restoration. elected officials think of wolves

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For now, wolves are protected by the federal Endangered inhabiting the counties in which wolves cannot be killed in the SNRA they live. Species Act. But wolves have in summer 2002, even if they kill Counties are not the only level reached recovery goals and livestock within the SNRA. This of government passing anti-wolf latest decision follows a second legislation. On March 6, 2001, the may soon be removed from the lawsuit filed by the Western Idaho House of Representatives endangered species list. When Watersheds Project and the Idaho passed the House Joint Memorial Conservation League to close eight Bill 5. This bill demanded that wolves that happens, wolves will be grazing allotments in the SNRA be removed from Idaho “by whatever where wolves and livestock have had means necessary.” The law does managed by the states, and past conflict. While the judge’s not supersede federal law, so no the states must be ready to decision does not close the allot- action will be taken, but like the ments to grazing, it sends a message county legislation, it is a reflection of manage them. that wolves will have precedence how some Idahoans feel about wolves. over livestock in the SNRA. Anti-wolf groups were active For now, wolves are protected by again in Idaho this year. In May the relocate and eventually kill wolves the federal Endangered Species Act. Central Idaho Wolf Coalition bought that repeatedly prey on livestock. But wolves have reached recovery newspaper ads throughout Idaho to Additionally, the judge ruled that goals and may soon be removed from publish its anti-wolf beliefs. The the U.S. Forest Service is in violation the endangered species list. When ads stated that the Coalition’s “sole of the federal Rescissions Act, passed that happens, wolves will be managed objective is the immediate removal of in 1995, which orders the service to by the states, and the states must be the Canadian gray wolf from Idaho create a schedule to conduct environ- ready to manage them. Idaho has because of the catastrophic slaughter mental analyses for each of the completed a wolf plan, Montana’s is of our big game herds, serious grazing allotments in the national expected to be complete by the end livestock predation, loss of wildlife forest system. The main result of the of the year, and Wyoming expects its viewing—causing unnecessary and ruling is that the service must review plan to be completed by March 2003. extreme hardship to ‘mom and pop’ all 28 of its grazing plans for the Once the plans are in place, the businesses.” (Despite their claims, SNRA to determine whether they are process for removing the wolf from there is no evidence that wolves adequately protecting wolves. the Endangered Species Act may are destroying big-game herds in A subsequent ruling by the same begin. It will then be interesting Idaho. Additionally, wolf depredation judge on July 19, 2002, decreed that to see how all the local anti-wolf accounts for only a small portion of sentiment plays out. ■ livestock losses each year.) Current gray wolf range in In the midst of the anti-wolf the northwestern states sentiment in Idaho, however, have come important actions that support wolves and their presence on wild lands. On June 13, 2002, in a lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service by the MONTANA Western Watersheds Project and the Idaho Conservation League, a federal District Court judge ruled in favor of OREGON Sawtooth National wolves. He stated that the 1972 law Recreation Area Yellowstone that created the Sawtooth National National Park Recreation Area (SNRA) in Idaho gave Klamath IDAHO wildlife, and hence wolves, prece- County Fremont Siskiyou County dence over livestock that graze on the County SNRA. The judge also stated that this WYOMING law must be balanced with those CALIFORNIA established prior to the reintroduction of wolves in the state, which direct the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to

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INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER Notes From Home

Minnesota’s First Wolf Biologist Honored ilt Stenlund was recently recognized for his lifelong conservation work. Stenlund, an early student of Sigurd

Ely Timberjay M Olson, carried out one of the earliest wolf studies in Minnesota and has been called Minnesota’s first wolf biologist. He worked with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for 35 years before retiring. Stenlund also served on the Marshall Helmberger, Marshall Helmberger, Mary Imsdahl and her father, Mark, paddled 200 International Wolf Center’s board of directors for 6 years. miles in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness On June 14, the city of Ely, Minnesota, and the to raise money for the International Wolf Center. International Wolf Center dedicated the spur of the Trezona Trail, which leads to the Center, the “Stenlund Spur.” Father-Daughter Team Raises Gretchen Diessner, assistant director of the Center, said, “It Funds by Paddling for Wolves was wonderful to watch Milt be honored with his family at his side. It seems appropriate that the hiking trail that brings ary Imsdahl wanted to Mark, “that is all part of the public to the International Wolf Center be renamed for Mto make her father- the experience.” Milt. After all, his early research helped to lay the ground- daughter canoe trip across What inspired Mary, age work for our mission of teaching the world about wolves.” the Boundary Waters Canoe 13, to give up part of her This was the second time Stenlund has been honored in Area Wilderness “more summer to raise money for special.” She certainly did— wolves? Since the age of the past year. In October 2001, Stenlund received the she turned the trip into a two, Mary has visited Ely, prestigious Judge John W. Tobin award from the Izaak fund-raiser for an outreach Minnesota, and the Center Walton League (IWL) for his conservation work. Stenlund educator position for the every year. “I have had a has been active in the IWL for many years, serving the league International Wolf Center. great time watching [the in many ways, including as the Grand Rapids, Minnesota, Mary is asking people to wolves].... I fell in love with chapter president. donate an amount per mile them,” said Mary. When paddled. So far, she and the government announced her father, Mark, have the gray wolf would be raised over $4,700. The taken off the federal money they raise will be endangered species list, matched by a $5,000 grant. Mary decided she The pair began their would help out. The 200-mile journey at Grand educator position Portage along the eastern will inform the border of the state on June public about how 23, reaching Crane Lake, wolves and humans

125 straight-line miles west, can coexist. Center alter Medwid, International Wolf on July 12. They paddled If you would like to W endlessly and trudged over contribute to the fund, long muddy portages, swat- contact the Center at 1-800- ting masses of mosquitoes ELY-WOLF. and blackflies, but according Nancy jo Tubbs presenting Milt Stenlund with the proclamation naming the “Stenlund Spur”

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Gary Laidig Receives “Who Speaks for Wolves” Award vidence of Gary Laidig’s dedication to the International EWolf Center is everywhere—from the new wolf pond to the auditorium’s spacious seating. During his 28-year political career, the former state senator successfully labored The Truth for Center funding from the Minnesota Legislature. In About April he earned this year’s “Who Speaks for Wolves” award Wolves for navigating the complex maze of the legislative process in support of wolves and the environment. Laidig re wolves actually ‘wicked’ and do courageously fought in an arena where politicians rarely “A they eat people? Of make decisions based on biology. course not, but folktales like In accepting the award, he said, “It is important to ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ my writing skills to teach remind lawmakers that healthy wolf populations are a state perpetuate the miscon- others about this maligned responsibility.” Laidig, an avid outdoorsman, was captivated ceptions surrounding the animal. I am currently by the first wolf he met in 1987. He found the predatory endangered gray wolf.” working on a persuasive animals fascinating and mysterious. Keenly aware that These sentences began an essay for teachers on the article for Science & Children wolf as a hero in literature. education was key to their long-term survival, Laidig magazine, May 2002, written The International Wolf realized that supporting the Center’s work was essential: by Jean Mannesto, a reading Center’s information has “It is important to demonstrate that such projects can teacher at R. J. Wallis been extremely helpful in work, and that people no longer just come to Minnesota Elementary School in presenting the accurate, to hunt and fish but to learn about wolves.” Kincheloe, Michigan. unbiased facts.” The Center’s Laidig recently changed careers, but thousands of In December 2000 “Gray Wolves, Gray Matter” ★ visitors to the Center will benefit from his tireless efforts Mannesto received a online curriculum was one and personal enthusiasm for wolves. A big congratulations fellowship to attend an of the highlights of the International Wolf Center workshop. to Laidig—he deserves it. Wolf Educator work- Mannesto has been shop. “I will never doing wolf activities with forget the moment I her reading classes for about saw a wolf at the three years, and each year Center,” she said. “The she continues to learn more. wolf pressed its nose She encourages teachers, against the glass, and parents and adults every- I placed my hand where to incorporate the there, too — just a wolf in their lessons and small layer of material reading about endangered between us.” animals to help dispel the Talking about how myths about this intelligent she has used what she wild creature. ■ learned at the work- shop, Mannesto said, Editor’s note: A “Gray Wolves, “In Michigan, as in Gray Matter” student workbook for grades 6–12 can be found online other places, many at www.wolf.org. The entire hunters shoot wolves curriculum may be available because they think online in early 2003. they eat all the deer. ina Hildebrandt T So I decided to use Gary Laidig, recipient of the “Who Speaks for Wolves” award, with Nancy Gibson, Center board member.

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INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER Contributors nk Yo Tha u! International Wolf Center Major Donors Honorary Elmer & Eleanor Andersen In Honor of Foundation Marcia McKalvey: Bob Andrews Scott & Amy McKalvey he International Wolf Center would like to thank Virginia Atterbury Steve, Andrea, Ryan & Tmembers for their remarkable generosity in responding Thomas & Shirley Bivens Sasha McKalvey to our needs. We continue to need the following items. If Mark Carson you are able to donate, please call our administrative offices Royalties Genevieve Crooks in Brooklyn Center at 763-560-7374. Donors who contribute MBNA America Valerie Gates any of the items listed below or the cash equivalent will Mimi Gowen receive documentation of their gift for their tax records. Matching Gifts Joe Greenhalgh Libby Bezek & Toro GENERAL AUDITORIUM AND Julie & Parker Hall III Kim Casteel & ★ Luggage rack for a CLASSROOM General Mills Foundation ★ F. B. Hubachek 15-passenger van Sanyo multimedia Robert Dewar & ★ Neil Hutt Portable compact disc projector Microsoft Matching Gifts player for the van ★ Set of Audix PH Patty Miller Program ★ Child-size snowshoes 5-VS speakers Dody Nesbit Dorene Eklund & ★ ★ ★Closed trailer for Cart for projector General Mills Foundation Candy & Rolf Peterson hauling prey food and speakers with Randy Johnson & Toro ★ Spotting scope electrical outlet Debbie Reynolds ★ Kirsten Langhor & with tripod Classroom chairs Martha Schoonover ★ General Mills Foundation Binoculars Robert & Leslie Smith ★ Podium or small work EDUCATION Kevin Oliver & United Way ★★ station for concierge desk Laminating machine Charlotte Spak of Orange County ★ Business-band long-range Nancy jo Tubbs Cynthia Wong & RETAIL walkie-talkie set Gerson Bakar Foundation ★ ★ Free-standing mirror Tanned pelts, hides, In-Kind Donations antlers or bones from for store customers Mary Beaudoin Memorial ★ Rolling display rack animals associated with for clothing wolves (deer, beaver, John O’Shaughnessy In Memory of moose, elk etc.) for Kim Wolfgram Salz Kenneth Chester: WOLVES AND Renee Chester educational programs Jerry Sanders WOLF CARE ★ Slide scanner ★ Insulated coveralls ★ iMac, 500 MHz or higher Muriel Sibley for wolf-care★ duties ★ New iBook or ★ Travel crates for fire PowerBook G4 evacuation ★ Cosequin double-strength chewable tablets ★ Vita-Min Tabs Senior and

Regular (multivitamins) Monty Sloan/wolfphotography.com ★ Fly-Off fly ointment

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Tracking the Pack

The Return of the Omega Wolf At first Lakota was very MacKenzie and Lucas, intimidated but later uncov- began dominating Shadow by Lori Schmidt, Wolf Curator, ered a cached deer leg in the intensively for the first five International Wolf Center straw bed and proceeded to minutes of the introduction, guard the leg from Malik. keeping Shadow away from hen we last left from staff, getting her own Students attending a wolf Lakota. Although this Womega wolf Lakota in deer carcass on feeding day ethology (behavior) course reintroduction has been the Summer 2001 issue of and generally being treated at Vermilion Community successful so far, dominance International Wolf, she like an alpha, instead of an College spent several nights issues requiring interven- ranked at the bottom of omega. This intensive care observing the introduction tion are likely to arise as the Center’s pack. It was seemed to improve Lakota’s in case of aggressive inter- hormones increase during all downhill from there. physical and psychological actions. fall. To stay informed about Dominance toward Lakota condition. After discussions On the morning of June the actions of the pack, increased as the arctic with veterinarian Dr. Chip 24, we lured Shadow into check the Wolf Logs on the wolves Shadow and Malik Hanson, the team decided a holding area while we Web site at www.wolf.org. ■ matured. Thus, on February to attempt to return Lakota released Malik and Lakota 19, 2002, the wolf manage- to the pack. A reintroduction back into the pack. Lakota ment team decided to plan was formulated and im- behaved excitedly, swim- remove Lakota from the plemented on June 23, 2002. ming in the pond, running pack after she was the object The reintroduction started through the upper enclo- of several aggressive attacks. by placing Malik in a special sure and interacting with As predicted, the fall brought Lakota spent several holding area with Lakota to Malik. She continued this increased aggression toward months in an adjacent enclo- determine if Malik would be behavior throughout the Lakota as well as MacKenzie, sure, receiving daily visits aggressive toward Lakota. day. Shadow remained in and both were moved into This introduction went the holding area overnight retirement in August 2002. The well, beginning with Lakota to give Lakota a full day to Center is currently fund-raising running toward Malik in a reacclimate to the wolves in for a new retirement enclosure submissive play bow. Malik the main enclosure. for Lakota, MacKenzie and, showed dominant body The next day we released eventually, Lucas. To donate postures toward Lakota and Shadow at 7 a.m. Malik to the ambassador pack’s did a stand-over, resting his initially approached to greet retirement enclosure, send head on Lakota’s shoulder. Shadow, but the alphas, your donation to the Wolf Care Fund, International Wolf Center, 1396 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731-8129. You can also donate by purchasing the video “Highlights of the Ambassador

International Wolf Center International Wolf Pack at the International Wolf Lakota is the omega, or Center” (all proceeds will go to bottom-ranking, wolf in the the retirement enclosure); go to Center’s ambassador pack. the Web site at www.wolf.org and click on the Pack Page for information about the video. Nancy jo Tubbs

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by Jakki Harbolick that wolves might still visit what remained of their former Wisconsin Keepers of the Wolves: ranges. By 1974, he had collected enough evidence of their occasional The Early Years of presence to single-handedly convince Wolf Recovery in the state to reclassify wolves from “extirpated” to “endangered.” Finally Wisconsin protected by the federal Endangered by Richard P. Thiel Species Act, their populations would University of Wisconsin now begin a slow, agonizing recovery. Press, 2001 And this recovery would be moni- humanity and humor, from grum- tored and protected over the next bling hunters hunkered around the y the mid-20th century, decade by Thiel. bar at the local tavern to the survival had become a brutally But Keepers of the Wolves is more blowhard politician ever seeking to Bdifficult, odds-off proposition than mere chronicling of this incred- further his self-interest. Thiel gives for the gray wolf. Once found ible recovery project, because Thiel full credit, too, for willingness, where throughout most of the contiguous is also, in the best tradition of it exists, to revise long-held mis- 48 states, this true native of the James Herriot, a gifted storyteller. conceptions and beliefs. American wilderness was now rare, Understated, utterly lacking in In his dedication, Thiel thanks his day by day walking a thin line pretension, Keepers is informative, wife, Deborah, “who has allowed me between fragile life and the human- heartbreaking and indescribably to live my dream and who has shared made abyss of extinction. Remnant funny—Thiel’s account of his first with me the trials and triumphs of populations still lived in northeastern “flight” in a Piper Cub borders on this life’s journey. . . .” We, in turn, Minnesota, but in Wisconsin, this comic genius. owe Thiel for sharing his journey and majestic predator seemed gone for Thiel evinces as well an unusual its riches with us. The recovery of good. And then Richard Thiel and ability to balance resolute objectivity the Wisconsin wolf population is a his colleagues documented one of with unfailing generosity of spirit. He worthy legacy. ■ the great wolf recoveries of modern is equally unwilling to romanticize conservation. More than 300 wolves the wolf or to vilify humans. Even Jakki Harbolick is a language arts and now inhabit Wisconsin. those whom Thiel might be expected writing teacher. She lives in Leesburg, Thiel, however, is unfailingly to deplore on the basis of attitude or Virginia, with her husband, Pete, and their two children. modest about his work. In his latest behavior are treated with respect, book, Keepers of the Wolves: The Early Years of Wolf Recovery in Wisconsin, he is never boastful or self- aggrandizing, allowing a naturally compelling story to tell itself. In 1978, when Thiel joined the Department of Natural Resources as an assistant biologist, resident timber wolves had been gone from Wisconsin for 20 years, victims of single-minded extermination and compromised habitat. As a college student majoring in wildlife biology, Thiel had searched tirelessly for signs

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WOLVES IN EUROPE some eastern countries have having adapted to living The Action Plan for Wolf also expanded westward amazingly close to humans. Conservation in Europe into Germany, while some Wolf predation on livestock Italian wolves have migrated has been the historic reason by Jay Hutchinson northward into France. for the elimination or Wolves in Europe prey control of the predators. olves, brown bears, two centuries. Yet, small but on animals ranging from Wolves are now protected Wwolverines, and two healthy populations have large ungulates to domestic in most European countries, species of lynx once roamed survived in Portugal, Spain, livestock to rodents. Some although enforcement in Europe’s broad mosaic Italy, Scandinavia and Greece. even subsist on garbage, some countries is very weak. of forests, plains and Larger populations have mountains. Humans, ever survived in Romania, the increasing, came to domi- Balkans, Poland and neigh- nate Europe’s landscapes, boring countries to the east. depleting these large carni- In some cases remnant vores and forcing them to groups are isolated and still survive in small pockets and decreasing. on the fringes of the human In a few areas, such as landscape. the Alps and Scandinavia, Wolves were extermi- wolves are returning to nated from most of western where they were earlier Europe during the past exterminated. Wolves from B. and C. Promberger B. and C. Promberger

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In others, especially in the resulting draft was The overall objective of communities, including eastern Europe, wolves are commented on and revised the plan is to “maintain and guided tours, howling considered a game species. by the experts. restore, in coexistence with sessions, selling plaster Whether wolves are pro- The Wolf Action Plan was people, viable populations casts of tracks, wolf logos tected or hunted, poaching meant to guide each country of wolves as an integral and labels on tourist goods, is widespread. in implementing a national part of ecosystems and and interpretive centers During the 1990s, public plan in conformity with landscapes across Europe.” with captive animals. The interest in saving wolves its own laws. Because wolves Specific goals are: plan also stresses that spurred a unified effort can disperse widely and 1. Allow the wolf to recover education, media contacts among Europeans. In 1995, many European countries and live throughout and public involvement are experts from 17 countries are relatively small, the plan Europe wherever it is necessary to win acceptance (all countries west of the also stressed coordinated biologically and econom- by the local community. former Soviet Union except continental efforts: each ically feasible; Lastly, the plan acknowl- Turkey) and the World Wide national plan had to consider 2. Ensure wolf-human edges the need for applied Fund for Nature launched strategies being adopted coexistence and a research, especially on plans to save Europe’s large by neighboring countries. sustainable compromise European wolf genetics, carnivores. Action plans After extensive collabora- by limiting the conflicts; dispersal, mortality and the for each species were drawn tion, the plan received wide and interesting tolerance of up. For the Wolf Action consensus and was 3. Achieve a Pan-European wolves to human distur- Plan, questionnaires were recommended by the Bern perspective in managing bance to an extent unknown sent to at least one wolf Convention. Each country wolf recovery and help in North America. expert in each country, and is supposed to draft its own ensure wolf conservation national action plan and management on a For more information, see and adopt legislation to continental scale. Action Plan for the accommodate the provi- Factors to be considered Conservation of Wolves sions. are habitat restoration, (Canis lupus) in Europe, travel corridors, ensuring April 2000, compiled by food supplies (such as Luigi Boitani, at www.large- possibly reintroducing carnivores-lcie.org. natural wild prey), human Wolves, brown bears, and two species of lynx once roamed attitudes, problem wolves Jay Hutchinson is a writer Europe’s broad mosaic of and damage to livestock, and editor, retired from the forests, plains and mountains. compensation to farmers U.S. Forest Service’s North These large carnivores now Central Forest Experiment survive in small pockets and and shepherds, and wolf- Station, in St. Paul, on the fringes of the human dog hybrids. Minnesota. Between travels, B. and C. Promberger landscape. The plan discusses ways he enjoys writing about the wolf can be made various natural history economically profitable to subjects, including wolves. B. and C. Promberger Wolf predation on livestock has been the historic reason for the elimination or control of wolves in Europe.

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WOLVES IN GERMANY he excitement over the called for a wolf hunt. The Treturn of the wolf to state of Saxony compen- Outlook Germany and the birth of sated the owner of the sheep for German the first pups (spring 2001) at 100 percent of the market in more than 150 years price. The law calls for Wolves Positive has been tempered by 80 percent compensation in in Spite of recent livestock losses. In the future, but some shep- Livestock late April 2002, a new pack herds want wolf organiza- believed to consist of three tions to pay the remaining Losses 2-year-old wolves, killed 27 20 percent. sheep in the Lausitz region The attacks surprised by Neil Hutt of Saxony. Saxony’s Agriculture and The attitude toward Following the attacks, Environment Ministry. The wolves is extremely shepherds lost no time in area has abundant prey, pack in the distance. He positive, but we all know employing a number of including wild boar and hammered on the engine how fast this can change deterrents, including flare deer. Matla, cautious from hood of his tractor, but that to the extreme opposite. pistols, electrified fencing the beginning about naive seemed to attract the wolves and 24-hour vigils by teams presumptions regarding rather than scaring them off. — Oliver Matla, president, German Wolf Association, of volunteers. Oliver Matla, wolves and domestic animals The shepherd said the International Wolf, Winter 2001 president of the German in proximity, expressed regret wolves approached and Wolf Association, reported at the depredations. “We came very close to him. He that although a couple of hoped it wouldn’t happen tossed a lighter at one of the shepherds demanded the that early,” he said, “but you wolves, but this had no wolves be killed, no organi- know how wolves are.” effect. He then climbed back zations or individuals have Nevertheless, Matla onto his tractor, and the expressed admiration for the wolves moved away. shepherd, whom he charac- Christoph Promberger, Travel the protected waters of terized as “very considerate” director of the Carpathian SE Alaska’s inside passage. despite the loss of his sheep. Large Carnivore Project, This remote area of This shepherd related a observed that in Romania, mountainous islands, close encounter with the shepherds have noticed that old growth timber and wolves after the volunteers wolves living near to live- tidal estuaries is home of the stopped guarding his flock. stock are less fearful of Wo l f Wa t c h Alexander Archipelago Wolf. The wolves returned to the humans. Yet in spite of the pasture, where, Matla said, attacks on sheep and the Aboard the 6 day, 5 night trips, meals, the shepherd noticed the encounter reported by the lodging, daily shore excursions MV HYAK into the best wolf habitat.

FOR A BROCHURE CONTACT: Riptide Outfitters P.O. Box 19210 Thorne Bay, Alaska 99919 www.hyakalaskacharters.com 907-828-3353 Annette Mertens In April 2002, a wolf pack killed 27 sheep in Saxony, Germany, but in spite of these attacks, the outlook remains positive for wolves repopulating eastern Germany. No other losses have been reported as of August 2002.

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WOLVES IN BULGARIA the most remote and inac- cessible regions of Bulgaria. Wolves Make Steady Gains As in other parts of the in Bulgaria world, including many areas of North America, by Neil Hutt wolves have been the victims of habitat reduction, Whenever I talk to harvest data, questionnaires, encroaching human settle- foresters or hunters, they surveys for sign (tracks, ment and relentless exter- invariably offer to pay scat, fur and snow urina- mination. Gradually, me to bring in a dead tions) and incidental sight- however, wolves have wolf; I offer to buy them ings, the Action Plan for increased, and surveys to a drink for each wolf the Conservation of Wolves determine accurate popula- shepherd, the outlook (Canis lupus) in Europe tion numbers are now being they do not kill. remains positive for wolves (April 2000) estimates that conducted by nongovern- — Alan Wittbecker, Ph.D., repopulating much of ecologist, Balkani Wildlife Society perhaps 800 to 1,000 wolves mental organizations eastern Germany. No other survive in Bulgaria’s frag- (NGOs) such as the Balkani losses have been reported as n Bulgaria public atti- mented habitats. The popu- Wildlife Society. The cost of of August 2002, and moni- Itudes toward wolves are lation trend is stable, radio-collaring and aerial toring of the wolves in the often negative, especially in according to the plan. tracking is often prohibi- original pack indicates that rural areas, where many This is encouraging they have continued to hunt people believe wolves prey news. In 1980, an estimated only moufflon (wild sheep), on humans. Moreover, 100 wolves existed only in wild boar and deer. wolves are frequently Matla hopes humans and blamed for livestock deaths, wolves can coexist in a many of which are actually region where wolves reap- caused by disease and peared after being extinct attacks by feral dogs. since the 19th century. With Hunters, too, have miscon- that objective in mind, the ceptions about wolves, Society for the Protection of insisting they reduce game Wolves initiated an informa- populations and kill all the tion weekend for hunters valuable trophy animals. and shepherds following Because of limited large- the attacks. Attended by scale monitoring, the number members of the German of wolves in Bulgaria is not Wolf Association, the session known. However, based on included lectures by wolf biologists Gesa Kluth, Erik Zimen and Christoph Promberger. Meanwhile, in Saxony, where wolves are legally protected, nonlethal measures are being taken to help the region’s shepherds deal with the threat.

The author thanks Oliver Matla for B. and C. Promberger providing regular updates on the wolves in Germany.

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tive; however, some money not be used for hunting has been obtained from the game. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment court issued a decision that and Water and from several wolves killed by hunters NGOs and private donors. must be recorded, a reversal In addition to public of the regulation article education and outreach stating that no recording is initiatives, conservationists required. are pushing hard for legal Research is needed to protective measures. For understand both the status U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service example, last year the of wolves in Bulgaria and Balkani Wildlife Society and the extent of the threats to the Semperviva Society their long-term survival. of predators need to be WOLVES IN THE challenged specific articles The Balkani Wildlife Society increased. To this end, in a federal hunting and is exchanging data with education sessions have Adaptive game management regula- other carnivore projects, begun in selected schools, tion. In May 2002, the and the Carpathian Large and the Balkani Wildlife Management: High Administrative Court Carnivore Project, under Society has launched a A Success of Bulgaria decided that the direction of Christoph program to provide shep- contrary to the government Promberger, assisted with herds in southern and Story for Red regulation, traps cannot be radio-collaring Bulgarian western Bulgaria with Wolves? used for hunting predators. wolves in May 2002. Karakachan guard dogs. The judgment also states Information and outreach Researchers are deter- by Shauna Baron that traps and poison should efforts and management mined and hopeful. “Whenever I ask children if nterbreeding (hybridiza- they want to live near Ition) between red wolves wolves, they say, yes,” Alan and coyotes has long been a Wittbecker reports. “I agree. threat to the survival of the I would not want to live in highly endangered . a wolf-less Bulgaria much In 1999, U.S. Fish and less a wolf-less world.” Wildlife Service biologists partnered with other scien- For more information, see: tists to conduct research Action Plan for the and design an Adaptive Conservation of Wolves (Canis Management Plan to better lupus) in Europe, April 2000, understand the inter- “Surrounded by exceptional friendly SERVICE, compiled by Luigi Boitani, at breeding phenomenon. great FOOD and First-class Accommodations” www.large-carnivores-lcie.org; Estimates showed that if YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT! The Large Carnivore Initiative interbreeding could not be • Pool, Whirlpool and Sauna for Europe (LCIE), News controlled, the red wolf • Evergreen Restaurant • Antler’s and Events, May 8, 2002, would be unrecognizable as Lounge • Group Event Facilities www.large-carnivoreslcie.org/ a distinct species within as • Scenic, groomed trails • Gameroom news70.htm; few as three to six genera- • Snowmobile Rentals • X-C Ski Trails • Heated Ice Fishing House Rentals and report by Alan Wittbecker, tions (12 to 14 years). • FREE use of snowshoes Balkani Wildlife Society, Today the Red Wolf • Much more! April 11, 2002, http://forums. Recovery Program field team delphiforums.com/Wolfseeker/. is demonstrating that inter- RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER breeding can be managed 400 N. Pioneer Rd, Ely, MN successfully in eastern North 218-365-6565/1-877-GRAND ELY Neil Hutt is an educator and www.grandelylodge.com International Wolf Center Carolina. By early 2001, the email: [email protected] board member who lives in field team had created a Lynn Rogers Purcellville, Virginia. coyote-free and -free

20 W inter 2002 www.wolf.org IntWolf.winter 02 10/10/02 2:54 PM Page 21 Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

zone known as Zone 1 of the The red wolf field team old mother, Wolf 978F, Photo far left: (Left to right) Chris red wolf experimental popu- has extraordinary plans for had raised six pups the Lucash, John Weller and Barron Crawford weighing a red wolf pup lation area (see map). 2003. One effort will focus previous years, and U.S. Immediately to the west in on removing sterile hybrids Fish and Wildlife biologists Middle and right photos: In May Zone 2, any known hybrids from Zone 2. This measure were optimistic that she 2002 two captive-born red wolf pups were placed into a den have been sterilized so they will allow red wolves to could manage a litter of containing two wild-born pups. cannot produce offspring. acquire territories in that four. Frequent monitoring Frequent monitoring of the den site These sterile animals hold zone through natural of the den site using radio showed that the mother wolf had territorial space until wolves dispersal. In addition, two telemetry showed that 978F accepted the new pups as her own. can take their place. red wolves from a program had accepted the new pups Additionally, the number of where wolves were raised as her own. The biologists hybrids in Zone 3, the most naturally on an island will reported that all was going western zone, has been be released into the wild. well as of September 2002, nurture hope for achieving reduced. Finally, plans call for the exciting news indeed. milestones in red wolf In 2001 three hybrid insertion of captive-born If it continues to be recovery and for increasing litters were found in the pups into wild litters, a successful, the fostering the chances that this rare management area, all on the method also known as method may help the Red and beautiful predator will western edge of Zone 3, fostering. These three Wolf Recovery Program survive in the wild. ■ where interface with coyotes methods will augment the continue to build the was expected. However, at wild population and world’s only wild red wolf Shauna Baron is the Education and Outreach the beginning of the denning increase genetic diversity, population. Research in Coordinator for the U.S. season in spring 2002 only thus enhancing the long- genetics and exciting new Fish and Wildlife Service in one hybrid litter, also at the term survival of red wolves. techniques such as fostering Manteo, North Carolina. edge of Zone 3, was found. The fostering of captive- The boundaries of Zones 1 born pups into wild-born and 2 are, therefore, being litters was first attempted extended to reflect the in May 2002. The North expansion of the coyote- and Carolina Zoo donated two hybrid-free zone. pups, a male and a female, To establish a healthy from a litter of six born and viable population, the at the zoo. Microchips were red wolves must defend implanted in the pups for their territories against non- identification, and the wolf canids. Recent obser- animals were transported to vations suggest that red the Alligator River National wolves are beginning to Wildlife Refuge. The pups

displace coyotes and hybrids, were placed into a den U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service though confirmation of containing two wild-born The North Carolina red wolf experimental population area. Zone 1 of the area is coyote- and hybrid-free. In Zone 2 any known hybrids have been this requires further investi- pups. All four pups were sterilized so they cannot produce offspring, and in Zone 3 the number of gation. the same age. The 6-year- hybrids has been reduced.

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Calls in the Night Howling with Red Wolves our inner wolf and to learn more about this endangered animal. And to by Hugh Biggar have a little howl. Aubrey White, executive director of the Red Wolf Coalition, is our A version of this article originally appeared in the We’re just 20 minutes west of guide for the evening, along with the Washington Post, Wednesday, August 7, 2002. Nags Head—but a world removed U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s t just past 8:30 in the evening, from the Outer Banks’ beaches, Shauna Baron. The two groups I find myself surrounded by rolling dunes, strip developments, sponsor the frequent red wolf Athe inky dark of the Carolina Wright Brothers and Lost Colony howling safaris. “It is a really good night, the only sounds the hum of landmarks. This is the flat, swampy opportunity for people to make an crickets and croaking of bullfrogs heart of the Alligator River National emotional connection to the wolves and the scuffling of feet on a gravel Wildlife Refuge, surrounded by fields and realize they are in our backyard,” road. Light from a half-moon reflects and scrubby woods. The 152,000- says Baron, the service’s red wolf off black waters bordering the road. acre refuge is home to 200 species of outreach coordinator. “Not many Members of the small group I have birds, overly friendly black bears, the people know they are here, and that traveled here with huddle close country’s northernmost alligators and only 250 exist in the world.” together, not too eager to stray close the source of those yelps, the red At 8 p.m., we meet at the entrance to those waters or the neighboring wolf. Somewhere in the surrounding to the Creef Cut Wildlife Trail, just piney woods. Many vacationers in forest is one of the East Coast’s few past highway signs reading “Please North Carolina’s Outer Banks are populations of wild wolves. We have Don’t Stop to Feed the Bears.” As this likely mini-golfing, walking along the gathered here for a low-key foray into is very much a user-friendly wilder- beach or enjoying some nice seafood the wilderness, to get in touch with ness experience, our group of 20 is or a summer action flick. But we’re in an altogether different place, outside the boundaries of the traditional beach experiences. High-pitched yelps interrupt the quiet. vice Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser

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diverse, ranging from young children patch of eastern North Carolina. For more information about wolf to seniors. Baron passes around a red Even so, the future looks promising. howling safaris and red wolves, wolf pelt, generating excited oohs Although at one time wolf bounties contact: and aahs, and points out the long were paid in the state, locals have ears and reddish heads characteristic mostly come to accept the animals, The Red Wolf Coalition, of red wolves. and programs are now in place to P.O. Box 2318 While we swat away mosquitoes prevent interbreeding with coyotes, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 and yellow flies in the gathering dusk, the biggest threat to their future as a phone/fax: 252-441-3946; e-mail: White provides some facts about the species. [email protected] red wolf, the first carnivore declared With all this in mind, and eager to Web site: www.redwolves.com extinct in the wild ever to be reintro- escape the bugs and stretch our vocal duced to its native range. They once cords (which several of us have been U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s roamed throughout the southeastern warming up, sounding like wanna-be Red Wolf Recovery Program, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, United States. But by the early 1970s Tarzans), we climb into cars to P.O. Box 1969, the animals—like their larger cousin, caravan six miles over dusty, wash- Manteo, NC 27954 the gray wolf—had been made nearly board roads into the refuge. extinct by centuries of trapping and We park and step out into the Web site: http://alligatorriver.fws.gov/ redwolf.html hunting and deforestation. At that paludal, black night. A few of the time, the few remaining wild wolves children move forward, led by White. were captured and sent to zoos to Soon, they let out high-pitched yells, prevent the species from being which elicit no response from a pack entirely wiped out. From this small of seven wolves located roughly a band, four red wolves were reintro- half-mile away, but will likely keep duced into the wild in 1987. The continued on next page Alligator River refuge was chosen for its isolation and lack of development. (A similar effort in the Great Smoky Mountains failed.) Since 1987, the red wolf popula- tion in the refuge has grown to roughly 100 wolves, almost halfway to a goal of 220. At that, they are spread thin, with packs of six to eight wolves stretched across this broad vice vice Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser

Since 1987, the red wolf population in the Alligator National Wildlife Refuge has grown to roughly 100 wolves, almost halfway to a goal of 220.

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we get is the heckling of bullfrogs. Perhaps we’ve made it all too clear we’re just humans crying wolf. As Baron explained earlier in the evening, the already-shy animals

vice have learned from hard experience to be deathly afraid of humans. White then takes the lead again, sending out another deep, piercing call. The red wolves respond in kind, their calls barely rising above the crickets and frogs. We all pause before heading back. It’s a nice note to leave on, one that reminds us of what Barron Crawford, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Ser brought us here and away from the any friendly bears away. White then like distant city sirens than the nearby beach playgrounds in the first takes over and lets out an ululating doleful howls of the gray wolf. When place—the call of the wild and a sound call that might send a chill down the the calls fade, White encourages us as like no other on the East Coast. ■ spine of the unknowing—or even the a group to respond. We let out a knowing. collective noise that sounds more like Hugh Biggar is a Washington D.C.– based writer. He has published articles It certainly captures the attention the shrieks of large mammals being in the Washington Post, the Cleveland of the red wolves. Immediately, yelps slowly devoured by bugs than Plain Dealer, Defenders magazine and come floating back, sounding more anything wolflike. The only response the Environment News Service.

MAJESTIC WOLF BUST The BBC Natural History Unit by John Schneider is looking for footage for a ■ First in a series of three documentary about gray wolves. ■ Beautifully detailed, Specifically we would like to see unusual bonded bronze sculpture with gold highlights or exciting behavior of the following: ■ Suitable for indoor or Wolves, elk, moose, bears outdoor display (any animals with wolf interaction) ■ Life-size scale, 23” in height, 14 lbs. If you have relevant video footage that you think may ■ $199.95, make an exciting contribution to our documentary, plus S & H (Michigan residents please contact Kathryn Jeffs, add 6% sales tax) tel: +44 (0) 117 9742472 ■ Delivery: 2-4 weeks fax: +44 (0) 117 9747687 To order, write, call e-mail: [email protected], (888)554-8637, or visit us at or send your vhs tapes to Kathryn Jeffs, www.schneidercreations.com Wild Battlefields, Room 31 11-13 TPR, for this and other creations by John Schneider BBC Broadcasting House, Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2LR, UK. Custom sculptures also available. Call for quotes. We will endeavor to return any tapes sent (888)554-8637 provided you pass on your full address details. 470 Market SW, Unit 21 Those whose footage is selected for inclusion Grand Rapids, MI 49503 in the final program will receive payment. 10% of selling price of all wolf sculpture sales will be donated to the International Wolf Center

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OLVES IN SPAIN are Wfeatured in a new book in Spanish by Juan Carlos Blanco and Yolanda Cortes titled Ecología, Censos, Percepción Y Evolución Del Lobo En España, published by Sociedad Española para la Conservación y Estudio de los William Rideg, Kishenehn Wildlife Works Mamíferos in Malaga, Spain. OLF AND COUGAR WCONTROL on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is being considered by the B.C. Ministry of NEW WOLF PACK, called the University of Illinois. What the Water, Land, and Air Protection, AHalfway pack, has been found virus’s effect will be on wolf popula- according to the Vancouver near Avon, Montana. The pack of tions is unknown. (August 14, 2002). The proposal is eight had killed a domestic calf in to reduce the estimated 400 cougars the area and was reported by a local OLF DELISTING is being and 150 wolves by a third to help sportsman to the U.S. Fish and Wurged by a group of Montana increase the deer herd. Wolf Wildlife Service, which then state legislators. Calling wolves advocates disagree that this effort confirmed the report. “killing machines” and “breeding would be effective. machines,” the group fears that the OLF DUCKS UNDER increasing wolf population will WOLF HUNTING BAN? WFLADRY. “Fladry,” or flag- reduce the state’s elk population. AThat is the question around ging, is being tested around a number Montana harbors an estimated 120 Banff National Park in Alberta. As of ranches for its effectiveness in wolves and tens of thousands of elk. around most national parks with keeping wolves out of pastures. wolves, some wolves live both inside However, at one such plot in OLVES IN UTAH? and outside the park. The Canadian Montana, a black wolf was seen WBased on sightings, howling Broadcasting Corporation has ducking under the fladry, showing and depredated sheep, U.S. Fish and reported that Parks Canada officials that it does not always work. Wildlife Service officials have have asked the Alberta government concluded that at least one wolf has to reevaluate wolf hunting around OLF REINTRODUCTION recently made it far into Utah. The the park, but that Alberta plans no Whas been mentioned as a Salt Lake Tribune reported this new change for now. possible method of reducing elk in record in its September 14, 2002, Estes Park, Colorado. According to a edition. OLF SIGHTINGS in September 2, 2002, article in the WYellowstone National Park Denver Post, elk numbers have OLF INFORMATION and have been made during 580 consecu- “exploded” in the Estes Park area, Winformation about other canids tive days as of September 11, 2002, and wolf reintroduction could be one will soon be published online by the according to park naturalist Rick way of controlling them. IUCN/SSC Canid Specialist Group McIntyre. McIntyre himself has spent at http:/canids.org/canidnews/. The 822 consecutive days attempting to EST NILE VIRUS HITS journal Canid News will be peer- observe wolves in the park and WWOLF. This mosquito-borne reviewed and will be edited by Claudio ■ has actually observed them on 388 virus, new to North America, has Sillero and David MacDonald. consecutive days. killed a dog and a wolf, according to a CBS news report from the

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Let’s Play Categories and each phylum contains different classes, and so on down the line. by Tamathy Stage, International Wolf Center Intern Here are all the groups that the gray wolf belongs to: very year Mrs. Chapman’s is the study of orga- KINGDOM: Animal (all animals) fourth-grade class looks nizing living things into different PHYLUM: (animals with forward to its visit to the local categories. Describing and keeping a spinal chord) E CLASS: Mammals (animals that have zoo. There, a naturalist teaches them track of species is easier if they are about the different animals they see. put into categories based on what hair and feed milk to their young) Some of the students notice that the they have in common. Taxonomy can ORDER: Carnivores (animals that eat jackals and the foxes look a little bit be compared to your mailing address. meat) like wolves, but the coyotes look a Parts of your address are more FAMILY: Canids (doglike animals) whole lot like them. general, like the state you live in. GENUS: Canis (wolves, coyotes, The naturalist tells them, “That’s Another part is very specific, like jackals and domestic dogs) because all those animals are in the your street and house number. Each SPECIES: lupus (gray wolf) same family, the Canids, while wolves plant or animal species has its own Usually scientists refer to an and coyotes are in the same genus.” taxonomic “address.” The different animal by its genus and species. That “What is a genus?” asks one of the parts are kingdom, phylum, class, way even if they speak different students. “Genus is one of the words order, family, genus and species. languages, they still know they are scientists use in taxonomy,” the natu- Kingdoms are the largest category. talking about the same species. ralist explains. “It helps us say how Each kingdom can be divided into Different languages may have much alike different species are.” several phyla (plural for phylum), different common names for a Monty Sloan/wolfphotography.com Amy Kay Kerber The wolf (left) and the coyote look a lot alike because they are in the same genus.

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T AXONOMY WORD FIND See if you can find the words listed below. Words may be vertical, horizontal, species. For example, the word for diagonal, forward or backward! wolf in French is loup. In Finnish, the wolf is called susi; in Spanish, lobo; E Z Z M V W O Y V E S A D P Q in Swedish, varg. The taxonomic N R G P U P M N K T S N I G T names are in Latin and can be hard to S R O Q S O V A Y A Z I N V A remember, so common names are easier to use in everyday conversation. G P F V N K I N G D O M A Z S Once you learn how the different M K E O I V P L I R H A C S O categories fit together, you can have W U X C K N I Y N O J L A A P fun learning what animals belong O A L N I F R J C H J L K M S together, and what makes them different. ■ T R Y Y A E U A J C C F H M F H J D M H Q S Z C L A M M A M M Q I E L P T R M T Q D I B L Suggested Activity: L L F Z R E E T N F F D Z H Y Think about the blocks that you probably played with as a child. Y L Y E E S U P U L S I N A C How would you organize them— F N C Q H X B P A C Q U J Y U first by shape, by color or by J O L G R C C V K N X F Y A G size? Try more than one way of G E N U S W F W E F E F W F K organizing them, and see which one you like. ANIMAL CARNIVORE GENUS PHYLUM CANID KINGDOM SPECIES CANIS LUPUS CLASS TAXONOMY FAMILY ORDER

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Wolf Predation and Elk in the tion on GYA elk populations claimed by some are not supported by field Greater Yellowstone Area data. The experimental population rules for wolves in the GYA provide by Ed Bangs specific management options should wolf predation significantly reduce n response to rumors that elk herds depending on how many elk leave ungulate populations. The U.S. Fish in the Greater Yellowstone Area Yellowstone National Park because and Wildlife Service, in cooperation I(GYA) have been severely affected of snow depth. with the states, will not hesitate to by wolves, I asked to review the data Wolf predation can accelerate prey relocate wolves should the need to collected by Montana and Wyoming population declines or slow increases, reduce wolf predation on native about their ungulate herds. Studies in but herd size is most often deter- ungulate herds arise, but currently the GYA show that 92 percent of wolf mined by a combination of other it appears premature to “cry wolf.” ■ kills are elk, and worldwide research factors, primarily habitat conditions, has demonstrated that predation can weather, and human hunting of adult More information can be obtained at http:// affect prey populations. females. Wolf predation can affect northerngraywolf.fws.gov/. No scientific information indicates ungulate populations, and that issue Ed Bangs is the Northwestern that elk populations in Wyoming remains a legitimate concern of the Wolf Recovery Coordinator for the have been significantly reduced by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, state U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. wolves. With a total population of fish and game agencies and hunters. 34,255, all six herds of wintering elk Ongoing long-term cooperative in the GYA were larger than the state’s research by the National Park Service,

management objective. Calf / cow U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Mike Fontaine ratios have been lower (low 20s/100 Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological cows) recently than they were in the Survey, Nez Perce Tribe, Montana, early 1980s, but Wyoming still uses Idaho, and Wyoming and various liberal hunting seasons to manage universities will be able to clarify the elk populations and has not made potential effect of wolf predation on any changes in hunting because of elk and other ungulate species. At this wolves. time the drastic impacts of wolf preda- All Montana elk herds in the GYA, except one herd south of Bozeman, contain populations larger than state objectives. Northern range elk, the largest herd, have fluctuated between 9,000 and 19,000 in the past 20 years. The ratio of 14 calves/100 cows counted in 2002 was the lowest in over 20 years, but the ongoing regionwide drought is thought to be the major cause of the lower ratio, although wolves and other predators undoubtably contributed. Montana also uses winter cow hunts to reduce elk populations. Annual harvests

range from hundreds to thousands William Rideg, Kishenehn Wildlife Works

28 W inter 2002 www.wolf.org Cover.winter 02 10/10/02 2:23 PM Page 4

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