We will consider the scientific and social reasons why some Americans have alternately reviled and revered wolves, and examine the process of justifying wolf restoration as an experimental population under the Endangered Species Act. Find out what the wolves eat, how they kill their prey, which does the killing, and what effect the wolves have on other animals, including livestock outside the park. We will watch for wolves at dawn and dusk from the roadside, and discuss them while watching videos and slides in the classroom at midday. Depending upon conditions and the wishes of participants, we may ski in wolf country and look for tracks. Cross-country skis and basic outdoor clothing required.
Gaiters are a big help.
Join us for the latest news of the wolf reintroduction and an overview of wolf ecology. Lectures will cover basic taxonomy, biology, ecology, and management. With luck we may explore a kill site. On Friday and Saturday, there will be evening lectures. Bring field lunches and lots of trail food.