Hi All,
In the 1920's and 30's wolves were considered a problem and were exterminated in Yellowstone. It took until the 70's and 80's to realize the importance of wolves and other predators to a healthy ecosystem.
In March of 1995, 14 Canadian gray wolves were released in the park. There are now over 100 animals in four packs. They tend to stay far away from people.
Finding wolves in Yellowstone is a lot like finding a rare bird on a wildlife refuge, you just drive around until you spot a large group of people with many spotting scopes.
It was very foggy this morning so we couldn't see across the valley. We did, however get to hear a wolf, sort of. Wolf #89 is one of many that have radio collars. Here a park biologist rotated the antenna until he hears the distinctive beep from wolf #89.
It's not just park employees who watch for the wolves. Hundreds of citizens patrol the park roads in search of these magnificent animals. Last year we met a couple who spend a month every year, camped in the Lamar Valley of Yellowstone watching wolves.
Some even get vanity plates to show off their dedication.
Though it would have been wonderful to spot a wolf, we have no complaints. Wolf is perhaps the only megafauna we didn't see today. Stay tuned.
Love,
Sandy & Carl
Living & Traveling in our Motorhome
Volunteering across America
617-435-8502
Photographed and sent from Carl's iPhone
