2015 Summer Quarterly

(pg 37)

SUMMER 2015 Featuring: Ask the Biologist (pg 6) • 12 Dens of Knowledge – Bears (pg 11) • Up in the Air with Raptors (pg 14) • Red Wolf Country (pg 16) • Novel Ecosystems (pg 22) • A Whole New Ballgame (pg 27) • And much more...

SUMMER 2015 Table of Contents

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1 Letter from the President 2 RadioWild 3 WAGTalks 3 Pixingo 4 Why I Got Involved 6 Ask the Biologist 11 12 Dens of Knowledge – Bears 14 Up in the Air with Raptors 16 Red Wolf Country 22 Novel Ecosystems 27 A Whole New Ballgame 32 INTERN EXPERIENCE 34 The Impact of Volunteers NO, You 36 Wolf Behavior 101 41 Mexican Wolves SUCK! 45 Adoptions 46 The Great Predator Debate 50 2015 NW Heritage Awards 52 Stay & Play in Northern Idaho

27 The Sawtooth Legacy is a publication of the Wolf Education & Research Center (WERC). The purpose of the magazine is to provide interesting and engaging information to children and adults about the gray wolf species that promotes a broader understanding of wolves, wolf recovery, their place in healthy ecosystems, and the state and federal policies that impact their survival.

Board of Directors

Sharon Lander, Treasurer Danielle Hawthorne, Secretary Jamie Burch, Board Member Dennis Olson, Board Member

WERC Staff

Chris Anderson, Staff & Board President Jeremy Heft, Sanctuary Manager/Biologist Jessica Collins, Asst Biologist/ Volunteer Coord.

Lori Prichard, Gift Services /Reservations Alan Lacy, Mexican Gray Wolf Education Dave Winfield, Graphic Design & Layout Dawn Cadwell, SLQ Editing Team Steven Urke, SLQ Editing Team

Dear Friends,

My goal is that this quarterly serve you and our community well by informing, inspiring, and engaging.

Summer is a special time of year at the Wolf Education & Research Center. About seven years ago, we began holding an annual Summer Celebration for our supporters and friends. Over that time, we’ve had as few as 52 guests and--last year!--more than 120 guests.

This year, with the addition of bear folks from Western Washington Wildlife and Casey Anderson of NatGeo WILD fame, the interest in our June 2015 program is at an all-time high. And so is our team’s enthusiasm!

One exciting summer activity is the arrival of our intern staff. This year, we are host to three students from across the U.S. In mid-June, a fourth intern will arrive to fill in gaps and cover duties. You’ve already met this fourth intern; Kyle Owens wrote the informative article about mountain lions in our last issue of SLQ. Altogether, the summer staff make Wolf Camp a very special place for guests to learn about and have a personal experience with wolves.

Another exciting development–we are expanding Jessica Collins’ role to include volunteer coordination.

Each year, we get dozens of requests from people interested in coming and helping at Wolf Camp. Jessica will not only greet those opportunities, but also develop and manage each project. For example, Scouting groups have expressed interest in doing projects in exchange for Ecology and Conservation merit badges.

As we look forward to the rest of this year, I can’t thank you each enough for the investment you make in our work. I often say that WERC performs a million dollars’ SL - SUMMER 2015

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Letter from the President

worth of outreach for under $164,000 in donations.

We think that’s a pretty good return on investment.

I hope you do too.

This is an exciting issue. If something we’re doing especially resonates with you, please drop me a line and let our team know. My goal is that this quarterly serves you and our community well by informing, inspiring, and engaging.

Kind Regards, Chris Anderson Connect with us at Facebook.com/WolfCenter, Facebook.com/SawtoothLegacy, Facebook.com/OwyheePack, or personally at LinkedIn.com/in/ccanderson.

Do you care about endangered species?

Are you interested in ideas about the recovery and conservation of keystone species that are critical to healthy ecosystems? What about learning what other entrepreneurs are doing to make an impact in their businesses?

Find the RadioWild icon on our web site at wolfcenter.org, or tune into blogtalkradio. com/radiowild at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month.

If you’re a business or individual who’d like to sponsor our messages, contact info@ wolfcenter.org for more information. Hear your name on RadioWild!

Just one more way WERC is striving to inspire the public toward greater outcomes.

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Public Outreach Efforts

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Films, Art, Food & Talk Join Us for WAGTalks every month.

Venue: Madrona Hill CafĂŠ Address: 5937 N. Greeley Ave. Portland, Oregon Time: 7:30pm - 9pm Doors open at 7pm Suggested $5 Donation or Animal Toy for Dove Lewis Animal Hospital

Wild Artist Guild is an outreach of the Wolf Education & Research Center.

How can a penguin save a wolf?

It’s easy if its name is Pixingo!

Order your personalized custom greeting cards, postcards, or any number of other business communications through Pixingo.

You save significant money on printing and postage, and 5-10% of everything you spend goes directly to the Wolf Center to help support our wolves and education outreach programs.

Go to www.pixingo.com/wolfcenter/personal and start creating, saving money and supporting our wolves today!

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Why I got involved.

Have you ever noticed in movies about the future there are no animals? If there are, they are usually ferocious, homicidal monsters that will tear you to pieces if they catch you. Even today, wolves are the bad guys in almost every movie. They are so bad, we need vampires to protect us against them. Really? How many humans have actually been killed by wolves?

Millions? Thousands? Hundreds?

Documented cases can be counted on, get this, one hand --with a couple of fingers to spare. So, is our fear really warranted and where does it come from? I will allow others who have more knowledge of these topics to try to answer these questions.

As for myself, I believe our fear is mostly caused by ignorance and misinformation.

In a recent discussion about the future of apex predator advocacy, someone mentioned the aforementioned fact to the group, and it really struck home for me.

Can you imagine a world with out lions, tigers, and bears? Oh my! What about wolves, cougars, coyotes, and foxes? Or even eagles, hawks, and owls? I believe if we don’t act now, the filmmakers will be correct about the future of our planet’s wildlife and this tragic scenario will become reality.

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by Dave Winfield

Now, a little about myself, and how I became involved with this organization. To be honest, I never really thought much about wolves before becoming involved. I believed what I was told as a kid about wolves.

They liked eating little girls who wore red-hooded cloaks; they could cause buildings that weren’t constructed with modern technology to be blown down to the ground; and they loved chasing after promiscuous young ladies. All of these things were bad and society would be better off with out wolves.

If it were only true.

Then about six years ago, a childhood friend of mine contacted me on Facebook after he discovered I was a graphic designer. He told me his story about being the director of a Wolf Education thingy that produced information about “vicious wild beasts that lurk in the shadows.” I read his message, but in my head I added that last part.

After looking at what had been produced, I told my friend, sure, I could help him.

That was it. That’s the only reason I became involved; my friend needed help. And, as many of you know, that friend, Chris Anderson, is passionate

Why I got involved

about the conservation of all apex predators, including wolves and the wilderness areas they live in.

He wanted me to design his magazine. He sent me all of the articles he wanted in the new issue. As I usually do when starting a new project, I read the text to get some inspiration for page design and imagery.

I’m telling you, the first magazine took me at least twice as long to complete as I anticipated.

I was so fascinated with what I was reading. And, looking at all of the wolf pictures to choose from and reading the history of the organization took me awhile to absorb.

I was hooked.

Now on my ninth magazine, design goes much more quickly, and I have a pretty refined process of reading and getting inspiration. But, I still learn something new from ever article that I read.

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Number two: wolves are carnivores.

Living alongside a species that has been virtually absent for decades requires new thinking and management of ranching techniques.

Number three: ranchers are very important to our economy and way of life and deserve protections and support in living with this very important predator.

Number four: if you don’t mess with wolves, they won’t mess with you. We don’t have to enlist the stars of “True Blood” to battle the hoards of bloodthirsty child-eating wolves.

Did you pick up on my sarcasm there?

So, as a convert to predator conservation, I encourage you to become involved in some way. Whether by keeping up your membership, or sending friends and family gift memberships, even if they are opposed. They, like myself, may learn something that could change their heart and mind towards this iconic species.

Your participation keeps the conversation going, and enables the cause to continue to be heard.

Number one: wolves are very important to a healthy ecosystem. They push ungulates, making them move through natural habitats so they don’t over-graze and damage fragile ecosystems for other species.

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Ask the BIOLOGIST

1. Are the orphaned red foxes still Camp?

living around Wolf

supporters, so here is some We often hear this question from our

g our red fox saga. background and an update regardin red foxes into our 20-acre Last July, WERC released three young

Sawtooth Pack: Wolves of the Nez enclosure, the former enclosure of the e e association with the Washington Stat Perce. This project was done in clos l pita hos The l’s Exotics Department.

University Veterinary Teaching Hospita e only them back to health. Since they wer had rescued the fox kits and nursed to y for life in the wild yet. The plan was four months old, the kits were not read fed wilderness while being protected and slowly acclimate them to the rigors of y read e wer they e kits quickly showed us in our large enclosure. Well, the thre wolf rs, all three had escaped the fortified to be free‌.immediately! Within hou re occur and had no plans to re-captu enclosure. We anticipated this might to be wild. them. The kits obviously were ready ained near the enclosure, and even rem s However, all three foxe

ughout the summer. We observed them climbed back into the enclosure thro the e lines, spending time in and out of moving back and forth across the fenc had their own plan for wilderness safety of the enclosure. So, I guess they r six months to help them adjust to thei training? WERC fed them for nearly . ided prov near camp and ate the food we new life. At first, all three remained of s three may have moved on; sighting

By September, we believe one of the e of n decreased. In November, evidenc the foxes and the amount of food eate g hun y likel fox last ks showed that the fox activity decreased again. Snow trac

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Ask the BIOLOGIST

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around Camp until the ne w year. No evidence has been observed since. We believe all three foxes ha ve moved on to a healthy, wild life in other areas. Th forest surrounding Wolf e Camp is not the best habit at for red foxes, so we always expected them to move on to “greener pastures” when they were ready.

Thankfully, we never saw evidence that any of the fox kits died or were attacked by coyotes while near Camp. All in all, we feel we contributed to the recovery and are proud ir to see our “kits” grow up and move away from ho me.

2. How can I help my dog or wolf/hybrid gain weight?

Recently, a supporter contacted me requesting advice on how to increase the weight of her newly-adopted wolf-dog hybrid. Although WERC does not condone the breeding of wolf and dog mixes, we do support the rescue of such animals which are already living and who are in unfit environments. Many folks who ask for assistance through our Ask the Biologist program are hybrid owners-- which highlights the complexities and dangers of maintaining these “genetically confused” animals in domestic settings. For the current question, the answer would be about the same regardless of the canine’s heredity. Adding weight to a large canine should be relatively easy, unless an underlying medical condition prevents it. So, the first step is to consult a veterinarian to ensure the canine is healthy.

The veterinarian will probably run a fecal parasite analysis and blood panels. Most commonly, a canine can’t add fat to its body if it has large loads of intestinal

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Ask the BIOLOGIST

ly worms are present, they can be easi worms or a metabolic imbalance. If d, ion. If a metabolic imbalance is foun treated and removed through medicat ent in diet such as hyperthyroidism, an adjustm solve the ld cou or the addition of medications no signs ws issue. If the underweight canine sho stigations, of health detriment through these inve may be then an increase and upgrade of food warranted.

First, provide a dry dog food that is high

e up to in fat and protein, and make it availabl ed to three times a day. Wet food can be add and lity tabi pala the dry food to increase the ines can e consumption at each feeding. Sinc setting, can eat a large amount of food in one will they as h muc as fed they can basically be h brot f bee or eat without vomiting. Chicken ries calo can be added to dry food to increase can also be and taste. Raw or cooked red meat e a week, supplemented to the diet about onc If either . rhea but watch for vomiting or diar er. geth es or stop the red meat alto occurs, then either cut back on quantiti e of fat and protein for canines, and hav Hard-boiled eggs are a great source in t wolves among the Sawtooth Pack been used to recover protein-deficien to er eag are the taste of eggs and the past. In my experience, wolves love may peel off the shell if you prefer, You gobble them up quickly, shell and all. eficial to the nutrient requirements but the calcium of the shell is also ben By ct of large canine health is exercise. of canines. Another important aspe them e mak ch whi metabolism increases, walking or running frequently, their py food can replace the adult dry food hungry. Finally, if necessary, dry pup . However, once your canine reaches to increase the fat content of the diet return optimum weight, the canine should er to adult food to maintain prop weight. If no underlying medical conditions exist, a large canine should quickly add weight to their bodies by increasing and adjusting their diet and exercise.

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Ask the BIOLOGIST

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3. Does other wildlife interact with our captive wolves?

Yes, absolutely. One of the best attr ibutes of the Winchester facility is that the enclosures are essentially part of a mature, healthy forest, with just a fenc e separating the large mammals. The interior of the enclosures is no different than the forest outside the fence line . The trees, shrubs, water sources, insects, birds, and small mammals are a continuous environment on both sides of the fence. Only ungulates, felin es, Ursidae, and other canines are prohibited from crossing into the terr itory of the packs. Even though thes e large wildlife species do not directly interact with the captive wolves, they are present nearby the enclosures and ofte n influence the pack’s behavior.

Both the Sawtooth and Owyhee Pack s have been in constant contact with birds such as Ravens, Magpies, Gray and Stellar Jays, Turkey, Grouse, Redbreasted Nuthatches, Black-capped Chickadees, Red-tailed Hawks, and Grea t Gray Owls, among others, since thei r arrival at Wolf Camp. Although mos t of these species steal food from the wol ves, they are rarely chased by the pac k.

However, Ravens sometimes lose in a close encounter with a wolf and the Sawtooth Pack was notorious for hun ting grouse that flew into their enclosu re.

The Owyhee Pack caught their first turk ey last winter.

During the summer, insects and arac hnids abound within and around the enclosure. Most of the time, the insects are a nuisance to the wolves, but sometimes the tables turn. I have witn essed wolves chasing and leaping afte r grasshoppers across an entire meadow …and eventually winning a tiny snac k after the chase.

Coyotes inhabit this forest, and outn umber wolves and humans combined. Evidence that wild coyotes are regularly moving very close to the enclosures is prolific. We know coyo tes “mark” (urinate on) the outside fenc e,

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Ask the BIOLOGIST

while both packs have always marked the inside fence. Most often, when a coyote pack approaches, the wolves tion simply engage them with a vocaliza h roac app battle. However, if coyotes k very closely (within 300 feet), the pac becomes very quiet and seemingly

stalks the coyotes.

Likewise, White-tailed Deer are

n daily visitors to both enclosures, ofte approaching to very close proximity. the Most of the time, the wolves ignore rby, nea ing graz deer. However, if deer are run, then suddenly become startled and the pack will occasionally give predator y chase from within their enclosure‌until they run out of space and the deer continue running away. For squirrels, chipmunks and voles and other small mammals who actually share the enclosure with the pack, the fence does not provide any safety.

Occasionally these animals become snacks for the eversmall opportunistic wolves. The capture of can be, prey is about as wild as captive wolves ainly do cert ves wol so it is clear that our captive all the and st interact with the surrounding fore accompanying wildlife.

-J. Hef t

If you have any questions pertaining to wolves, etc., please let me know so I include them in future segments. Please email me with future questions/topics at: jeremy.heft@wolfcenter.org ~Jeremy Heft Biologist/Sanctuary Manager

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12 Dens of Knowledge–Bears

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The Wolf Education & Research Center partners with many organizations and teaching groups to bring quality, informative programs to the public. One of these partnerships is an online tool for teachers called KidWings.

Kidwings is an outreach of supporting company Owl Brand Discovery Kits. Recently, Owl Brand began building on their popular “12 Nests of Knowledge about Birds” by adding information about canids (wolves and coyotes) and ursids, also known as bears.

The purpose of this cadre of information is to elevate young people’s awareness of the top carnivores. These are species that WERC and others feel are critical indicators of healthy and diverse ecosystems. This effort serves as a learning springboard, inspiring future interest and encouraging responsibility for the conservation and stewardship of carnivores and other animals and their habitats.

It is to that end that we invite you to continue reading this publication and, for the adventurers, visit us online at www.kidwings.com where you’ll find the “Nests, Dens, and Caves of Knowledge.”

Den#1: It’s a Bear’s Life.

Now, let’s examine the ursids, or bears. If we look closely, we can see a resemblance between bears and dogs. In fact, bears are classified as caniforms, or, doglike carnivores. Despite this classification, the bear’s closest living relative is the pinniped, or seal.

There are only eight species of bears, but they are widespread, appearing in a variety of habitats throughout the Northern Hemisphere and parts of the Southern Hemisphere. Bears are found on the continents of North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

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12 Dens of Knowledge–Bears

consider bears “indicator species.” This means the health and future of many other species, including humans, can be traced directly to the health of bear populations. As we reveal fascinating characteristics and facts about bears in this learning experience, we hope you’ll come to a greater understanding of ursids and embrace better stewardship of the wild places you have access to.

During this initial introduction, we’ll discuss varieties of bears and perhaps correct a popular misconception about hibernation. Join us in learning about the remarkable world of bears.

EIGHT species of Bears.

Brown (Arctos)

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The best way to learn about the various species of bears is to see their pictures.

Surrounding this article are images of the world’s eight surviving species of bears.

Among them:

American Black Bear (Ursus Americanus)

Asian black bear (Thibetanus)

Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos Ornatus)

Indian Sloth Bear (Melursus Ursine Ursinus)

Giant Panda (Ailuropoda Melanoleuca)

Sun bear (Helarctos Malayanus)

Polar Bear (Ursus Maritimus)

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12 Dens of Knowledge–Bears

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Often, when we share this list of bear species, the question arises, “What about the grizzly bear?” These eight species have numerous sub-species and the grizzly, for example, is a subspecies of the brown bear and a cousin to many, including Alaska’s Kodiak Bear and the famous golden bear, which is now exticnt.

Bears are primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere and, with one exception, only in Asia, North America and Europe. The spectacled bear is the exception. It is native to South America and inhabits the Andean region.

The atlas bear, a subspecies of the brown bear, was the only bear native to Africa. It came to North Africa from Morocco to Libya, but has been extinct since the 1870s.

The most widespread species is the brown bear, which lives in habitats from Western Europe, eastwards through Asia to the western areas of North America. The American black bear calls North America home, and the polar bear lives exclusively, and most ideally, on the Arctic Sea. The rest of the species are Asian.

It’s not nice to fool with Mother Nature... especially hungry bears!

With the exception of polar bears, which have adapted to their arctic conditions, bear species primarily live in forests where they find the food and habitat they require.

Hibernation. What exactly does that mean?

When people think of animals that hibernate, they often think of bears. In fact, bears are not truly hibernating animals. While they experience a form of hibernation, it is more accurately known as a torpor, or light sleep. For that reason, it’s a bad idea to enter a bear’s den during its slumber; they really are light sleepers!

The winter and colder months are the season bears typically go into a torpor, not eating or drinking for up to six months on average. And during that time, bears rarely need to urinate or defecate.

Join us on kidwings.com and in the Fall Issue of Sawtooth Legacy Quarterly where we examine the ideal bear den and explore one of the most interesting functions of dens—producing cubs!

Remember, when you give a Classroom Sponsorship, the school of your choice will receive this magazine along with our DVDs and our “Iconic Species Defense Initiative” posters that describe the history, benefits, and threats associated with top carnivores.

Turn to page 45 to learn more.

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Up in the Air with Raptors

Up In The Air With Raptors!

by Chris Anderson

Everywhere we look, there are birds! Even in cities where much of their habitats have been infringed upon, birds find a way to adapt and survive. Many cities have begun adding bird cams that capture the remarkable life cycle of birds. At KidWings.com, our goal is to inspire young people with a greater understanding of all things bird.

We begin that conversation with…can you guess?

The egg. We don’t care which came first. At KidWings, the egg comes first. On the KidWings web site, you can follow an egg-citing discussion about the life cycle of birds, what makes them a unique and amazing subject to study, their remarkable connection with prehistoric animals, and what we can do to promote and conserve various species.

Here, and in future issues of Sawtooth Legacy Quarterly, we will explore how birds achieve a beautiful harmony in both wild and urban settings.

We’re going Up in the Air with Raptors!

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Bird eggs Nests are a safe place where the egg is protected and has a chance to develop. Different bird species incubate their eggs for different durations.

They will also choose different nesting areas to place their eggs. These nests are as diverse as the species. Some use grass, leaves, mud, moss, and even feathers and fur to build a nest. Many birds use debris they find, such as plastic, paper, thread --even cushion stuffing from outdoor furniture!

Nests can be found almost anywhere-on the ground, in trees, in burrows, on the sides of cliffs, and in and on man-made structures.

Females typically build nests, but sometimes both parents or the male will build it.

One thing all birds have in common, however, is that they require a safe place to give their eggs a chance to become family members –chicks.

Up in the Air with Raptors

The bird egg itself is a remarkable formation. Eggs are often proportional in size to the adult bird.

For example, goose, emu, and other large birds have large eggs.

Hummingbird eggs, on the other hand, produce a tiny egg.

Check out the emu egg image to see how large they can be!

The contents of the egg all share the same characteristics. What is visible to us is the shell which encloses an outer membrane. Perhaps you have seen this membrane when peeling a boiled egg.

This membrane serves to keep the egg hydrated.

Every egg has an egg sac.

Inside a second membrane is the albumen of the egg.

We know this as egg white, which is the common name for the clear liquid (also called glair.)

One additional characteristic of an egg is the germinal spot, or egg cell. When fertilized, this egg cell will grow into an embryo. Check out the great drawings showing egg characteristics.

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A C B

D Egg Key A Ostrich Egg B Chicken Eggs C Emu Egg D Quail Eggs

This autumn, check out our Fall Sawtooth Legacy Quarterly, where we will discuss the nesting and incubation habits of eagles, osprey, and owls. And don’t forget, you can help us reach more young people when you sponsor a classroom. Sign up on our website and help students learn about wolves, bears, cats, raptors and other predators.

Visit www.wolfcenter.org for more information!

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RedWolfCountry

by Gail McDiarmid and Marilyn McGee

even years ago, gravel country roads led sisters Gail McDiarmid and Marilyn McGee to one of North Carolina’s most unique wetland habitats, the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Lured by the soft, hanging Spanish moss, the women discovered bogs, marshes, hardwood swamps and pocosin wetlands. It was also there that these southern ladies first heard one of the most soulful songs of the south–the howl of a red wolf. It was the first carnivore ever to be reintroduced to the wild after being declared extinct.

Grits, sweet tea and lighthouses may be synonymous with the Carolinas, but to these curiosity seekers, this part of eastern North Carolina meant learning more about the elusive and endangered red wolf.

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Kim Wheeler, Executive Director of the Red Wolf Coalition, and former Fish & Wildlife outreach coordinator Diane Hendry, took

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Marilyn and Gail into the Sandy Ridge enclosure to observe the shy, red wolf.

They were in awe of this apex predator that was closely observed by scientist William Bartram in 1791. It had once roamed the southeastern United States for centuries.

But, by the early 1900s, federal predator elimination programs, habitat loss and coyote interbreeding had wiped out all but a few red wolves. The tracks and scat of this elusive wolf had disappeared from the landscape and the mammal had reached the brink of extinction. Its future now rested in the hands of mankind. Little was known about the recovery process of a canid, so it was up to pioneers to lead the way.

In 1967, United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USWFS) declared Canis rufus as endangered and located the last red wolves in southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana. Infested with parasites, over

Red Wolf Country

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four hundred animals were trapped and evaluated. In 1974, 17 red wolves were identified as pure red wolves. Of these animals, 14 were selected to begin the red wolf captive breeding program at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington. For the recovery efforts to continue, the red wolf was declared extinct in the wild in 1980. For more than a decade, the focus became the approval of the Recovery Plan, incorporating the wolf into the American Zoological Association’s Species Survival plan and finding a location for the red wolf in the wild.

In order to move forward with the program, USFWS conducted public meetings, combined with educational programs.

This effort paved the way for the first four

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Red Wolf Country

USFWS/A. Beyer

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captive-bred pairs to be released in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in 1987. This site was selected because it was surrounded on three sides by water and had a sparse human population. It had abundant prey and was coyote-free. A year later, red wolf pups were born in the wild!

But, as expected, mortality rates were high.

Wolves were hit by cars, drowned or died from disease or conflict. In spite of these issues, the population expanded through the placing of pups born in captivity into the dens of wild, red wolves where they were nurtured and raised. Fostering pups was a milestone in the red wolf management program.

In 1989, a second restoration project began in the Great Smoky Mountains National park. However, it was canceled in 1998 due

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Top: Red Wolf Pups to be released in Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.

Bottom Right: Captive red wolf at Species Survival Plan facility, Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium (Tacoma, WA).

to low pup survival and the inability of wolves to establish home ranges within the perimeter of the park. Like all programs, this one had its fair share of problems.

Meanwhile, in the mid 1990s, the highly mobile and adaptable coyote found its way to North Carolina. Hybridization with the red wolf occurred so another management plan was initiated. Under this plan, coyotes were captured and sterilized, then returned

Red Wolf Country

to the wild as “placeholders.� Research has demonstrated that sterilized coyotes remained territorial and continued to defend their space. It is this concept of holding space that is being applied to manage hybridization.

B. Bartel/USFWS

Another concern for the red wolf was illegal killing. Because claims of misidentification between the wolf and coyote were being made, it was important that people be able to identify the differences between these two cousins. The USFWS, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, the Defenders of Wildlife and the Red Wolf Coalition collaborated to create a pocket ID card for hunters. The red wolf, Canis rufus is somewhat smaller than most gray wolves, measuring about five feet long nose to tail and weighing 45-80 pounds. They are mostly brown and buff colored with some

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black along their backs; there is sometimes a reddish color behind their ears, on their muzzle, and toward the backs of their legs.

They have tall ears and long, slender legs with large feet.

The coyote, Canis latrans, weighs between 30-50 pounds with a body length of 32-37 inches and a tail length of 11-16 inches. It also has a relatively narrow snout and larger, pointed ears.

The red wolf was managed on four levels: population, gene pool, family groups and individuals. The goal has been to maintain the strength of the red wolf population and to increase the numbers of wild wolves.

But there has been a recent development in North Carolina that has made the plight of the red wolf more critical than ever. In 2015,

, a g e 45 re on p rg See mo enter.o c lf o .w : www or visit

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Red Wolf Country

Red Wolf – Canis rufus Typical Description: • ~5’ nose to tail • 45-80 lbs.

• Coloring: Brown, Buff with some Black and Red fur.

• Tall ears, and slender legs.

• Large paws.

Coyote – Canis latrans Typical Description: • ~3’ nose to tail • 30-50 lbs.

• Coloring: Brown, Buff with some Black and Red fur.

• Narrow snout and large pointy ears.

• Long tail length of 11-16”.

The NC Wildlife and Resources Commission introduced the following two resolutions (taken from NC wildlife resources web page): “The first requests the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service end its experimental, non-essential red wolf reintroduction project in northeastern North Carolina, and further requests the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service capture and remove all individual

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animals and subsequent offspring that were unauthorized releases on private lands by the federal agency. ” The future of the red wolf as a species literally hangs in the balance. It is up to mankind to once again decide if the red wolf will freely live in the Southeast. The Wolf Education and Research Center will follow the decision as it unfolds.

Red Wolf Country

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Sadly no one knows how much longer this sign will be displayed. If we allow this species to go extinct...

Let’s return to Gail and Marilyn. Their trip to the Alligator River Refuge had come to an end. After reluctantly packing up and driving home down Highway 64, the ladies pass a sign that says, “red wolf crossing.”

Sadly no one knows how much longer this sign will be displayed. If we allow this species to go extinct, there will be no more red wolf country.

Gail and Marilyn’s dedication to educating the public about wolves inspired the pair to write their first book, Running for Home. Their goal is to change attitudes through education, one heart at a time.

They continue to add more animals to their outreach programming. This includes owls and coyotes. Unlike the avian predators, the coyote remains one of the most persecuted, native omnivores in the United States. And

like wolves, this misunderstood mammal has an important role in the ecosystem.

Raising awareness of the coyote’s intrinsic value, Gail and Marilyn seek every opportunity to teach non-lethal management and proactive measures for keeping the coyote wild. Unfortunately, it is often killed for fur, sport and in contests where prizes are awarded for killing the greatest number of animals. As stewards of the earth, Gail and Marilyn strive to follow in the footsteps of Aldo Leopold, the pioneer of ecology. He pointed out that “the environment did not belong to people; they shared it with everything alive. And because of their power, they bore the responsibility of maintaining it in the best interests of the life community.”

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ED Letter

NOVEL ECOSYSTEMS

by Kyle Owens

Joe Rogan believes that human beings are a complicated form of bacteria and that, from an alien perspective, the Earth is nothing more than a moldy sandwich floating in space. In this comedian’s analogy, Earth’s cities are growths of mold on a landscape of stale bread.

Although this idea is somewhat ridiculous and probably meant to inspire laughter, I still can’t stop thinking about how there is some truth in Rogan’s statement. The Earth is deteriorating, and humanity’s relentless grasp on the globe’s ecosystems is becoming increasingly evident as cities expand over time. How growing populations respond to Earth’s changing abiotic (non-living environmental factors) and biotic (species)

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conditions today will have an indirect impact on future ecosystem resilience and function. The coming decades will bring a lot of hardships and humankind needs to systematically brace for a dire future. In simpler terms, we need to stick the Earth in the fridge to stop the mold growth, keep the lettuce from wilting and the meat from spoiling.

In 50 years, the world’s population is expected to

exceed 10 billion people.

It is scary to think that the global population was 2.5 billion in 1950 and today it is blowing past 7 billion people at an alarming rate (United Nations 2014). The amount of resources it takes to support 10 billion people is difficult to comprehend.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reports that currently 38.5% of world land is dedicated to agriculture.

Novel Ecosystems

A mere 22% of the earth (excluding areas of ice) can be defined as wildlands, land without human occupation or land use (Ellis and Ramanutty 2008).

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) strongly believes that it is crucial to provide mitigation and adaptive strategies now in order to ward off the severity of an approaching storm of species extinction, food insecurity, drought, sea level rise and other irreversible global impacts.

The IPCC’s 2014 synthesis report states that without any mitigation efforts, by 2100 the global temperature will exceed 4C above the pre-industrial age temperature. To give some perspective, when the Earth was 4C cooler than today’s global temperature, it was experiencing its last ice age (American Museum of Natural History). During the last ice age, 1,000 feet of ice sat where the city of Chicago is now. Even with substantial mitigation and adaption efforts, climate change damage is unavoidable. A simple one or two degree Celsius rise in global temperature (relative to pre-industrial levels) will threaten

countless global systems (IPCC).

It is certain that in approaching decades, America is going to look different than it currently does. In the coming decades, the United States will experience an increase in heat waves, forest fires and flooding events (IPCC).

Species that are incapable of emigrating out of their geographical ranges (i.e. plants, smaller mammals, mollusks) in response to dramatic ecosystem shifts have an especially high extinction risk (IPCC). Policy

...from an alien perspective, the Earth is nothing more than a moldy sandwich floating in space. makers and practitioners are going to have the difficult task of managing for a plethora of new exotic species as they compete for resources with native species in newlyestablished territories.

The traditional approach to managing ecosystems is to restore the environment

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to historical conditions and to get rid of non-native species (M.P. Perring et al. 2014). This approach to restoration ecology is widely accepted by restoration practitioners as both ethical and practical. The successful reintroduction of wolves is an example of this approach. The environmental benefits of a dominant predator in the western United States is extensive. Wolf influence in the western United States can be seen within every trophic level to a degree that mirrors America’s natural frontier. Will wolves restore the West to what it was before Euro-American settlers colonized it?

There will be wide ranging environmental benefits with historic impressions, but the answer is simply, no.

Nearly all systems are impossible to completely restore to the state they were historically, given the widespread grasp of invasive species, species extinction, land use practices, and a changing climate (R.J. Hobbs et al.

2014). By definition, a self-sustaining ecosystem, where species composition and/or function have been transformed from historic SL - SUMMER 2015

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Novel Ecosystems

conditions, is referred to as novel (R.J. Hobbs et al. 2013). The world is currently divided into 40% used lands, 37% novel ecosystems and 22% wild lands (Ellis and Ramankutty 2008).

The San Francisco bay estuary is the most invaded aquatic region on Earth and is an extreme example of a novel ecosystem because it simply will never go back to its historic state. More than half of San Francisco Bay’s fish and most of the bottom dwelling organisms are not native, yet the estuary is functioning (Nature Conservancy). Organisms from around the world are

interacting with each other and establishing niches in this very complex estuarine system.

The novel ecosystem approach to ecological restoration emphasizes ecosystem resilience and function, but does not depend on native species or historical record as the basis for management decisions. This approach to restoration accepts the fact that the world is changing because of human influence and/ or a changing climate (Hobbs et al. 2013). The novel ecosystem approach to restoration says that non-native organisms can fulfill ecological roles and

benefit neighboring fauna and flora the same way the wolf has for Yellowstone’s ecosystem. Think about it.

If the wolf became extinct, is there a species that could replace its environmental influence?

This relatively new approach to ecological restoration is typically seen as a last resort solution if it is not feasible that environmental conditions be restored to an image of what they once were.

This novel approach is also difficult to implement because policy makers need to agree that a degraded ecosystem has permanently changed and that the introduction of a

The beautiful Golden Gate Bridge crosses an aquatic“melting pot” known as San Francisco Bay.

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Novel Ecosystems

The introduction of the Indian Mongoose to Hawaii’s isolated ecosystem is an example of how good intentions can go horribly wrong.

non-native species will be beneficial, practical, and safe over a long period of time (Hobbs et al. 2013).

There are numerous people (including respectable scientists) who oppose the introduction of a non-native species in any regard. A common example of a species introduction gone awry is the introduction of the mongoose to Hawaii in 1883 as an effort to control the overly-abundant population of rats. Today, mongoose cause 50 million dollars in damages to Hawaii and Puerto Rico annually, while voraciously predating on important native species of birds, insects, small mammals, and reptiles. Hawaiian

rats are active during the night and mongooses are active during the day, so the rat problem was hardly affected by the presence of the mongoose (Hawaii. gov). There are numerous other horror stories that are brought up when there is talk of introducing a species in a given dysfunctional system. But when species interactions are carefully plotted, and the pros significantly outweigh the cons, it is difficult to argue against the novel approach.

There are many successful examples of the novel ecosystem approach to ecological restoration across the globe. In southwest Australia the

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Carnaby’s black cockatoo population has declined by 50% in the past 50 years due to extensive land clearing of eucalyptic forests, a critical habitat for the black cockatoo.

Since the introduction of the Gnangara pine (an exotic species of pine tree) to Australia, the Carnaby’s black cockatoo has significantly depended on the pine tree for food and nesting (William Stock et al. 2013). The common ring-necked pheasant is an introduced game species to America from China. Since its first successful introduction to Oregon’s Willamette Valley in 1882, the ringnecked pheasant has been a suitable addition to America’s cropland and native grasslands (ODFW). This particular species of bird is able to comfortably share its niche with a wide variety of other native bird species (USDA).

Pheasants have grown to be an important game bird across the United States.

Habitat improvements intended for pheasant conservation are typically funded by sportsmen’s dollars and assist both game species and nongame species alike.

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Novel Ecosystems

The novel ecosystem approach to ecological restoration is currently being debated among people in a variety of biological fields as the lastditch solution to problems that highlight species interactions. It is certain that, with a response to a growing human influence on the environment and climate change, species composition and/or function will be permanently changed in many systems in the coming decades. Species of all types will be fleeing their damaged native lands for better alternatives, and species extinctions will transform landscapes as food-webs pulsate with new and absent assemblages. It is possible that the novel ecosystem approach to ecological restoration will be more widely accepted by more people in the future because the historical approach will simply not be realistic in many eco regions.

In my personal opinion, I believe that the novel ecosystem approach to ecological restoration is the ultimate example of what the IPCC is religiously advocating: mitigation and adaption. The novel

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Alexander Fleming, circa 1945.

ecosystem approach is an adaption to change, and promotes healthy ecosystem responses toward human-caused and climate- related stressors.

The acceptance of change is a good step toward a better future.

In 1928 Alexander Fleming discovered that his “mold juice,” a repulsive combination of bacteria and fungi, was able to eliminate a wide range of harmful bacteria. It was later discovered that this “mold juice” contained a rare strain of bacteria called Penicillium

notatum -- commonly known today as penicillin.

Fleming eventually found that when his foreign bacteria (penicillin) was introduced to the human body, it promoted an overwhelming resilience toward harmful bacterial growth and promoted immune system function.

In simpler terms, the Earth is not a sandwich, the Earth is a representation of us. Alexander Fleming’s discovery was the basis of the antibiotic age, one of the greatest advances in therapeutic medicine (acs. org).

by Chris Anderson

hen the New York Yankees visit Seattle’s Safeco

W Field, I clear my calendar and make the three-

hour drive from my home in Portland, Oregon. I follow many teams, but I am particularly enamored with the boys from the Bronx. To me, they embody the game I enjoy so much. Sure, the team is fraught with controversy, but the ups and downs of its history intrigues me. It’s never a mystery why fans of the sport support or oppose the Yankees’ presence.

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Baseball & Apex Predators

A few weeks ago, I made that pilgrimage north and caught two games. It was great fun. And not just the baseball. Perhaps I’m getting old(er), because I’m becoming even more of an observer of people.

I’ve been cheering for the Yankees since I was a kid. At WERC, we’ve been cheering for wolves together since 1996.

Why do we put ourselves through these experiences of hope, excitement, victory, loss and disappointment? What are we hoping for? Will the outcomes nourish and sustain us? Will our cheerleading stretch us in directions that makes us better stewards of our big, beautiful planet.

Whether filling my gas tank, queuing up with my ticket, sitting in my seat (usually amidst a sea of Mariners fans), getting in line for a 4th inning beer, or walking with the post-game crowd—I watch people and witness their outbursts. I wonder about their backgrounds, the Because challenges they face and the we can change the future. things they We must. Failure to do so care about.

Not without having “a horse in the race.” (See what I did there?)

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resources.

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Legacy Films. All rights reserved

ma

U.S. 44 min. Price: $19.99

wolfcenter.org

’s Dilem Debate – Its a Nation

exist is about divisions that The Great Wolf Divide a species, the near destruction of that resulted in the the edge of wolves back from forces that brought s among polarizing position extinction, and the from the United experts l Regiona of stakeholders. st discuss the history s States’ Pacific Northwe to centurie mythology that led made to wolves, some of the s, and efforts being of destructive outcome species across a continent. the and sustainably recover producer share insights to a Hear an Oregon beef Listen rs. g among predato challenges of ranchin ersial role essential but controv of their description of the the cascading impact that wolves play and based Wolf from the Idaho out an absence. Learn h Center as they carry Education & Researc about this iconic yet n educatio in important role divisive species. brought the who wolves eleven s, this Set to the history of doorsteps in the mid-90’ subject to the world’s regarding future we will choose story is about what a presenpredators. This is th wolves and other top known as The Sawtoo tation of eleven wolves Perce and how their legacy Nez cloud to Pack: Wolves of the same forces that work is threatened by the role. It is important ecological of all of the truth about their one of stewardship future, the of natural a story ultimately the world’s North America’s and

The Great Predator

What does that even mean? It means having an emotional has costly implications.

Drawing or financial parallels investment. It between sports means we are and the lives within stakeholders. The eye-and-earshot is second nature for me. race is obviously the objective or prize. But Growing up, as I did, in rural parts of the the horse is the way in which we uphold country, there were only three sports what is vitally important to us. It’s the and many metaphors and colloquialisms vehicle we choose to get us to the finish centered around them. So, for me, line. speaking ‘truth’ into people’s lives via sports analogies comes naturally.

I hold that having a stake in the outcome begins with having a position. Yes, an We all have favorite things that we root for, opinion. whether it’s our children, grandchildren, friends, sports, celebrities, or even politicians.

Baseball & Apex Predators

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Sure, I’m familiar with the expression that “opinions are like a**holes, everybody has one.” The very fact that everybody has that body part suggests it is essential to our survival, no? Mightn’t we assume the same of opinions?

Opinions are an essential part of the larger body. Us. They help us engage with others and shape our own ethics and values. Now more than ever, it is important to have an opinion. Our outward vocalization or behavior reveals our position and defines whether we are a people of indifference or influence. To have an opinion takes commitment.

Let’s acknowledge, though, that there’s a difference between trash talk reactions and informed opinions. The former have becoming an alarming trend, particularly on the internet and in the media, but certainly not exclusively.

How many times have I have heard, “Yankees suck!” at baseball stadiums across the country? Like most sports spectators, in the absence of something intelligent to say, opposing fans resort to trash talk. That’s not opinion. Not a lot of logic in the process and execution. (Do the Yankees suck? It’s not a measurable stat, recorded alongside Earned Run Average and Runs Batted In, but it is open to deeper reflection.)

The broader trend of reaction over reasoned opinion is disturbing. Because

Casey Anderson and his friend Brutus.

many of us care about the objectives of the Wolf Center, we should be concerned with how these trends are impacting our future, a future within a culture that is becoming destructively divided by trash talk. The future of this trend impacts the future of carnivores.

Why should we make our thoughtfullyformed opinions about apex predators known? Because these carnivores are crucially important. During the filming of The Great Predator Debate, Casey Anderson of Montana Grizzly Encounter was asked what the world would be like without apex predators. “Nature would go away and it would be one giant city of humans. It would be only a matter of time before everything failed or we wouldn’t be able to eat anymore. It would trickle down.

We would see that the greatest predator to man is the lack of predators…We’d be done.”

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Baseball & Apex Predators

You

SUCK!

NO, You

SUCK!

Casey’s statement is compelling and, yes, arguable. It encourages critical thinking—a type of thinking that is as important to save as any animal we work to rescue. We have to work toward independent, critical thinking in place of the lock-step, mindless following that has led to many human disasters.

We can change the future. Obviously, failure to do so has costly implications.

And change isn’t possible without people with positions and informed opinions.

Opinions do put us at risk of rejection, a lonely place. History, however, is full of people who changed culture because their marginalized opinion was the right one. Those marches didn’t begin with a crowd. And neither does ours.

Iconic beat generation writer Jack Kerouac wrote, “If moderation is a fault, then indifference is a crime.” Contemporary society demonstrates many expressions

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of indifference. Trash talk, ignorance and choosing to be uninformed speak loudest of all. How would being better informed change the outcomes of elections? What if people read what leaders stood for? I don’t mean what they say they stand for, but what they’ve actually demonstrated historically.

As we enter another election cycle, our televisions, radios, and intersections will become increasingly polluted by the ignorance of indifference. It will come in the form of negative campaigning –attacking opponents rather than presenting the merit of one’s own positions.

The trend is to effect cultural change through the division of people, rather than uniting behind worthy causes free of political motivation or gain. Those entrusted to care for our individual and collective pursuit of happiness are exposed at every level for unethical and criminal behaviors, thus undermining even their ardent defenders.

Places of faith are not beyond criticism, as leaders abandon ancient beliefs for self-interest. Many uphold community leaders and candidates-of-the-day over observing the inspiration that formed a faith –sources of real inspiration.

Entertainment sends conflicting messages about culture, what beauty is and isn’t,

Baseball & Apex Predators

and even what our priorities should be.

Actors make millions for movies where they shoot every living creature in sight and then release a statement condemning gun ownership. Actors portray every imaginable lifestyle and then comment on society as though their screen influence isn’t impactful.

Many of our families are in social and emotional disarray. Ironically, the issues dividing moms, dads and children are a response to the confused mixed messages of the culture at large.

Do we step in where needed? Do we coach, mentor and help?

Here’s what I Think...

The solutions we seek require a position.

We cannot afford to accept indifference in ourselves; society needs us to have informed positions that manifest themselves in word and deed.

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This mantra guides and filters my personal and shared priorities: People. They’re all around us. Are we present in the lives of those around us?

Place. It’s sometimes where we live; sometimes not. It’s a destination of our hearts. Is it where our children can live?

Purpose. What are our lives about? Do we wake up each day with resolve that we make choices that matter?

WERC is about those questions. Our goal is to create a narrative of hope in our modest, but far-reaching, outreach. We want to make lasting investments that inspire future generations of wildlife managers and those who steward the conversation and outcomes.

Answers are as individual as the people who are reading this opinion piece. You are invited to participate. You’re invited to consider that you matter and that there are avenues of meaning that may surprise you when you are adequately informed, inspired, and find community among others who care.

That is a better narrative that you make possible.

That’s a whole new ballgame.

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Class of 2015 INTERN EXPERIENCE The Wolf Education and Research Center is proud to announce the arrival of the Summer 2015 interns. Maia, Katy, and Zack arrived at Wolf Camp in mid-May to begin their summer Intern Experience adventures. They spent their first two weeks getting trained to handle many aspects of daily work at Wolf Camp. Duties include health and welfare checks of the wolves, Visitor Center operations, and facilitating our interpretive programs.

Each incoming intern has written a biography for us. This is a great way for everyone to get to know a bit more about Maia, Katy and Zack. They look forward to meeting you at our Summer Celebration.

Maia Chicherio

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I’m a recent graduate from Franklin and Marshall College.

I majored in animal behavior and worked in the college’s Vivarium, which houses all the animals used for psychology research by both professors and students. Among the animals housed in the Vivarium are spiders, geckos, rats, and two colonies of capuchin monkeys. I spent last summer working at Second Chance Wildlife Center in Maryland, a wildlife rehabilitation clinic, where I had the privilege of caring for various local species of birds, rodents, and even got to bottle-feed a baby deer. Other than working with animals, I enjoy many artistic activities, such as writing, music (singing, piano, and guitar), and theater. Now that I am done with my undergrad program, I plan on pursuing a career in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. I plan on working with large animals, and, because wolves are my favorite animal, I am particularly looking forward to my experience at WERC.

INTERN EXPERIENCE

Katy Hayden

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I am a recent graduate of the University of Vermont with a dual degree in Animal Science and Psychology. I have loved animals for as long as anyone can remember, and am excited to have the unique opportunity to work at WERC with such beautiful creatures as wolves. I am particularly interested in animal training and behavior, having recently worked as a trainer at a dog daycare and as an intern at a zoo. I look forward to continuing to educate the public about animals and conservation issues in my position at WERC.

Born and raised in suburban Massachusetts, I attended college in Burlington, Vermont in order to be closer both to the “city” and to nature. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing guitar, drawing, painting, and practicing amateur photography, as well as spending time in the Great Outdoors. I am an active hiker, skier, and rock climber, and can’t wait to explore Idaho in my free time as well as experience the simple, rustic life of Wolf Camp!

Hello W.E.R.C.-aholics, My name is Zack Campbell and I’ve lived my 23 years in Niagara Falls, New York, but I am about to set off for my greatest adventure yet–a road trip, lasting two weeks and totaling 3,000 miles; to climax with the embrace only a summer full of wolves and wisdom in beautiful Winchester, Idaho can provide. My earliest memories are filled with an affinity of large predators. Something about me just instantly identified with their wild and courageously free hearts; great protectors, balance-restorers, the epitome Zack Campbell of freedom in a simpler reality, capable of imposing ferocious will and also tremendous love. They are as the forest is, they know nothing but what is, consciously breathing in and out they blend out of themselves and into the moment itself, as fluid as the river yet stable as its banks. I have this affectionate passion for animals of all kinds, but certainly it is the apex that truly captures me. It was beautiful how I was exposed to the resonance the wolf carries inside of me. An old friend, a she-wolf herself, turned me on to the wisdom the wolf a few years ago with a simple gift: a mirror. After learning how dynamic and inspiring the creature truly is, It was love. I knew a life in the revitalization of Wolves would be of the utmost fulfillment. And so here I am now, on my way to W.E.R.C. to explore another aspect of Wolf Conservation. Educating and expanding awareness, collaborating to expand my own understanding and in turn sharing this with all who wish to receive. Fostering connections to culminate in the re-building of a collective bridge once forgotten between “people and wildlife”. Lighting the fire to illuminate self and creating my path; shaping the world as I wake to the oneness in the life of the water and the death in the fire, both of which are found without independence in the eyes of a gazing wolf.

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The Impact of VOLUNTEERS Most people don’t know or understand the impact volunteers have on organizations and projects. The positive effect of volunteers working with a small, non-profit group like Wolf Education and Research Center is immeasurable. Volunteers help our organization run efficiently; they help it flourish. The Wolf Center depends on everyone--from the first-time volunteer to the “life-timers” who have been here as long as I have been.

After my WERC internship, I came back and volunteered for three months. During those three months I learned more about the Wolf Center and also about myself. Volunteering really cemented something for me: this is exactly where I was meant to be and exactly what I was meant to be doing with my life. After volunteering, I returned home for a few months before I was able to move back to Wolf Camp.

Now, I am beginning new duties as Volunteer Coordinator. My journey from volunteer to coordinator has come full circle.

Veteran volunteer Bud Lancaster takes a break to provide a little entertainment with his bag pipes.

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As a volunteer I did many jobs, from helping split wood to repainting signs and performing office duties such as data entry and helping with mailings. This is just a small list of things I have done–things that still need to be done.

We are always in need of volunteers for a variety of tasks. These tasks range from office

The Impact of Volunteers

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work that can be done here at our site or in your own home, to varied, ongoing projects here at Wolf Camp. Every little bit helps us continue our mission to provide the highest level of captive animal care and education, and to inspire greater public tolerance toward apex predators.

Using old skills or learning new ones, there are many tasks to make your volunteer time interesting.

We are beginning to incorporate projects with the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts to help them earn different badges in conservation and environmental work. We offer the chance for troops or individuals to help on any of our existing projects or to propose new projects that are helpful to the Wolf Center, our mission and to the environment.

Martin Luther King Jr. once said “Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve.

You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

The Wolf Center greatly appreciates all past, present and future volunteers and looks forward to growing and expanding our volunteer program. Volunteering for the Wolf Education and Research Center allows people to get a unique look at our facility and a chance to see wolves that most people can only dream of. To volunteer please visit our web page www.wolfcenter.org/volunteer for more information.

“Everybody can be great… because anybody can serve.”

Martin Luther King Jr.

To volunteer, please visit our web page www.wolfcenter.org/volunteer for more information.

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Wolf Behavior 101

Lesson 20: Mourning Behavior

by Jeremy Heft

Biologist/ Sanctuary Manager

he belief that wolves possess emotions has long been debated among biologists and ethologists. To date, only primates (humans and apes), cetaceans (dolphins), felines, some rodents, and dogs have been suggested to maintain some level of emotion, but never wolves. The process of verifying that emotions exist in a species is very complex and difficult, due to the inability to exactly decipher the motivation behind all behaviors. Plus, other animals may display emotions through postures or actions that are extremely different or even opposite of human emotion expression. To grasp another species’ “thoughts” or “reasoning” is near impossible, hence, we may never

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Wolf Behavior 101

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’s Dilem Debate – Its a Nation

actually prove emotions exist in canines, or any other species.

However, wolves are widely recognized for their intelligence and social bonding—two factors that we believe create a basis for emotions. Those of us who live with wolves daily can share story after story of behaviors that seem to be emotional, particularly when a pack member passes away.

In April, we lost our friend Leqeyleqey to a sudden diseasecaused deterioration of her spinal cord. The behaviors the remaining pack displayed for two weeks after her death reminded me how wolves can in fact express some level of sadness. This examination of mourning behaviors among wolves is dedicated to my gentle friend, Leqeyleqey. She taught us much through her life, and, now, may her passing continue to teach us about the minds of wolves.

The Great Predator

exist is about divisions that The Great Wolf Divide a species, the near destruction of that resulted in the the edge of wolves back from forces that brought s among polarizing position extinction, and the from the United experts l Regiona of stakeholders. st discuss the history s States’ Pacific Northwe to centurie mythology that led made to wolves, some of the s, and efforts being of destructive outcome species across a continent. the and sustainably recover producer share insights to a Hear an Oregon beef Listen rs. predato g among challenges of ranchin ersial role essential but controv of their description of the the cascading impact that wolves play and based Wolf from the Idaho out an absence. Learn h Center as they carry Education & Researc iconic yet education about this in role nt importa divisive species. who brought the wolves eleven of s, this Set to the history doorsteps in the mid-90’ subject to the world’s regarding future we will choose story is about what a presenpredators. This is th wolves and other top known as The Sawtoo tation of eleven wolves Perce and how their legacy Nez cloud to Pack: Wolves of the work same forces that is threatened by the role. It is important ecological of all of the truth about their one of stewardship future, the of natural a story ultimately the world’s North America’s and

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facebook/wolfcenter

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All rights reserved

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First, let us look at why wolves could have emotions. The outward expression of inner “feelings” is likely an evolved skill to better cooperate among a social group, such as a wolf pack. Primates and cetaceans tend to live in relatively large groups of different heredity, but cooperate together for the benefit of every individual of the group—essentially a society, just like us humans. A wolf pack, although usually centered on a single family at first, can expand to include unrelated wolves, mirroring other social groups such as dolphins or chimpanzee. Expressing emotions probably increases the effectiveness of cooperation among individuals by communicating at a very high level. Therefore, understanding the inner “thoughts” or motivations of each individual benefits the society as a whole. Wolves are highly communicative within their pack, and with vast evidence suggesting their intellect is exceptional, it is understandable to think wolves could maintain some emotions.

The most significant change in behavior, or a potential expression of an emotion, I have witnessed in wolves is SL - SUMMER 2015

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Wolf Behavior 101

(Xayxayx (top), and Miyooxat (above) exhibited lower than normal activity levels immediately following Leqeyleqey’s passing.

after the recent death of a pack member. At first, when witnessing a fellow pack mate dead for the first time, wolves will often approach the body, warily. When in close proximity, they often smell intently, but do not touch the body. In my 17 years of captive wolf handling, and living through many wolf deaths, I have never witnessed any pack members touch a deceased body.

They will often remain near the area of death, but not move closer than 3-4 feet from the body. It has been hypothesized that this lack of touching a dead body may be an adaptation to not acquire the disease that killed the deceased wolf. This believable theory may help prevent outbreaks of contagious diseases. When the situation was safe (when the wolf was not euthanized, and the cause of death was not suspicious), I allowed the deceased wolf to remain with the pack for several hours after death, in order for the pack to investigate and comprehend the death. During these observations, the energy of the pack became low and the pack would typically gather in the same vicinity of the body, but not approach closely. When I would eventually remove the body, the pack typically gathered around me as I carried my friend on my shoulders and walked with me as if in a funeral procession.

Although wolves are known to guard their dead, and the pack was somewhat agitated, they never directed defensive behaviors toward me. At times, bark-howling would occur, which is a high-level stress behavior, but this vocalization did not seem to be directed at the removal of the body, rather was an outlet for the distress of losing a family member.

Once the body was removed, the pack would usually howl sporadically through the night. Long, drawn, descending howls that many would say sound “mournful”. From that point on, the pack’s behavior would change for at least the next week, sometimes for as long as almost three weeks.

By the next day, the energy level of the pack was very low.

Most social activities, especially play, were absent. Almost as if time had dramatically slowed, the pack became lethargic and disinterested in their surroundings. The long, descending howls continued, both night and day. Usually dominance among the ranks decreased abruptly, and the pack entered

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Wolf Behavior 101

into a temporary time of peace. The pack also disconnected from human handlers and was less social through the next week. Their eye and ear postures hung low‌defeated.

Does this expression sound familiar? Ever lose a loved one, and wonder why and feel very sad? The postures of wolves are very similar to how humans react to a sudden loss of a family member. Disconnections, lethargy, despair. However, this scientifically does not prove wolves have emotions. So, sometimes the best way to prove a theory on behavior is to disprove other motivations for the action.

If wolves are not experiencing sadness immediately after a pack-mate dies, then why are the sudden and consistent behavior alterations observed? It is possible that the decrease in dominance is caused by the sudden vacancy of a particular rank in the hierarchy. Perhaps the wolves need time to determine the next rank structure, so an instinctual moratorium on dominance behaviors is observed. However, when rank depositions have occurred in the absence of a death, the pack never waited to enact new hierarchy behaviors. If a new rank system was not determined immediately, then at least the process of determining a new rank order (such as increased dominance and testing behaviors) began immediately. Thus, the responses of a death versus a rank change without a death are not consistent.

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Xayxayx and the other two wolves could be heard howling in a low-mournful way. The meaning is up for interpretation but seemed full of emotion by those who heard it.

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Furthermore, why does the pack howl more after a death?

Is there another reason besides mourning the loss? The style of howl usually performed after a death is believed to be similar to what is known as a “locator” howl—a howl that is a call out to distant pack members, attempting to solicit a response from the wolf in order to locate them.

Maybe the pack is broadcasting this howl in an attempt to bring the absent member back to their location? However, most of the time the pack had an opportunity to observe the dead wolf and reacted with unusual behaviors at the moment, so either it takes time for the pack to understand death, or maybe they are calling out their sadness of their known loss? This motivation is difficult to decipher, yet an alteration in behavior caused by an emotional response is understandable. If this is true, then wolves are exhibiting emotion…sadness at the loss of a family member. This tragic event tends to elicit a severe emotional response from humans.

To grasp Gray wolves may do the same.

another species’ “thoughts” or “reasoning” is near impossible...

Fortunately, just like a human family, time heals a pack. Within two weeks, they usually return to normal daily activities and howling decreases back to normal frequency. They move on in life…just like we do.

Does mourning exist in wolves? Probably.

We do know their behavior changes dramatically when a pack-mate passes away suddenly, but is the motivation for the change based on an emotional response? Hopefully someday we can scientifically prove wolves do become sad.

Or perhaps we may eventually learn they maintain multiple emotional responses to a life change. Regardless of the reason, Xayxayx and Kuckuc recently became lethargic and detached for over a week following Leqeyleqey’s death. This was an abrupt alteration from their activities of the weeks leading up to Leqeyleqey’s sudden death. Is this possibly more evidence of emotions, or just another coincidence?

Unfortunately, only more captive wolf deaths will help us determine if mourning behavior truly exists in wolves. For now, we can only honor those individuals who sacrificed their lives to provide this insight into their complex cognition.

Rest in Peace, Leqeyleqey.

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Mexican Wolves:

Recovery in Progress

by Alan P. Lacy – SW Wolf Recovery Outreach

n March 29, 1998, eleven Mexican gray wolves were placed into acclimation pens in the Apache National Forest of Arizona, marking the first time in more than 30 years that the paws of these wolves had touched this ground. It was a monumental moment–history in the making. Ambitions and confidence were high as the Mexican wolf began its long, tenuous journey towards recovery in the wild.

O

The first few years of recovery saw many setbacks. Wolves were released into the wild, but many did not make it. Of the 11 wolves released the first year, only four remained in the wild a year later, prompting new releases. Models and projections by scientists and biologists estimated that, by the end of 2005, there would be at least 100 wild wolves, a self-sustaining and viable population.

However, by the end of 2005, only 35-49 wolves inhabited the wild, not even half of the expected number.

Many factors contributed to slow increase in the number of wolves surviving in the wild. By the end of 2005, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) had released 87 wolves into the wild from captivity. However, more than half the number of wolves released were found dead (44), mostly due to human-related causes (33 total). Additionally, the USFWS permanently removed 14 wolves from the wild and lethally controlled three.

Other wolves were removed from the wild temporarily to be paired with captive wolves for later release, or translocated during this time. To make a long story short, of the 87 wolves released between 1998 and 2005, only 26 wolves would have remained in the wild (if they weren’t SL - SUMMER 2015

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Mexican Wolves: Recovery in Progress

Bringing Mexican Wolves back from the brink of extiction requires expertice in multiple scientific fields, cooperation of a divided public, and some good old-fashioned luck.

temporarily removed). The breeding success of 87-96 pups surviving past their first year should have brought the total number of wolves on the ground to 113-122. But only 35-49 survived in the wild. The temporary removals had to have been a significant factor. There were 84 temporary removals during this time.

When figuring in temporary removals with the total number of wolves that should have been in the wild, we end up with 38 wolves, roughly the number remaining in the wild at the end of 2005.

So, the question is “Why?” The wolves

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were actually doing a great job of producing pups and staying alive on their own (except for the 44 unexpected mortalities). The management of Mexican wolves has become the focus of many groups and advocates who suggest that something should change; that there’s been too much management. Mexican wolves could have reached the goal of 100 by the end of 2005, but the reality is much more complicated.

Wolves kill livestock. Although rare, it does happen, and it can have a significant effect on smaller ranch operations. In order to work with local communities, the USFWS had to comply with rules and regulations that accounted for livestock depredations.

This has been one of the biggest reasons why the number of Mexican wolves hasn’t grown as quickly and efficiently as

Mexican Wolves: Recovery in Progress

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population of wild wolves has finally expected. Sometimes, the management surpassed 100. The official minimum decision was to temporarily remove entire population estimate for the year of 2014 packs from the wild to prevent further puts the population of Mexican wolves depredations from occurring. However, at 109. The population survey conducted in 2008, this heavy-handed management in January and February was nearly stopped; of 2015 was an historic legal action was moment for the recovery taken by conservation Will we consider program. Nearly 10 years groups to prevent future removals from 300 wolves a success after the projected time, the Mexican wolf has occurring. From 2008 to when they once finally reached the elusive current, the population 100+ number. of Mexican wolves has numbered in the increased every year thousands?

2014 marks one of the except for 2009, which biggest achievements saw an increase in in the recovery of the mortalities.

Mexican wolf. Not only was it the first year in which the wild population finally broke It has been 17 years since the 100, it marked the first time the USFWS reintroduction of the Mexican wolf to attempted to cross-foster Mexican wolf the Southwestern United States and the

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Mexican Wolves: Recovery in Progress

Captive Mexican Wolf at Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico.

pups in the wild. In May of 2014, two pups from a captive release female were placed into the den of a wild pack. It wasn’t until early 2015 (when the population survey results were released) that biologists knew it had been a successful crossfostering. They captured one of the pups and outfitted him with a radio collar to continue monitoring this monumental achievement. This radical technique gives biologists a new tool in the management of Mexican wolves. As the Mexican wolf recovery area expands into new regions, this cross-fostering technique will allow biologists to introduce new genetics into the population, this which will enhance the overall genetic health of the Mexican wolf population over time.

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Recovery is still in progress. Although the population appears to have been increasing over the past five years, there are still many challenges ahead. With the expansion of the boundary surrounding the recovery zone, new problems will arise as people learn how to live among wolves. How will these communities deal with wolves as they enter into new areas?

Will they be tolerant or vigilant? These are questions we must ask ourselves as we look towards achieving recovery of this critically endangered species. Will we consider 300 wolves a success when they once numbered in the thousands and ranged across Mexico and much of the Southwest? That is up to us to decide.

WOLF CENTER

ADOPTION PROGRAM

$165,000

Caring for four ambassador wolves costs nearly $165,000, including their health and upkeep, food that is not donated, and the maintenance of the Wolf Camp. You can make a significant impact in our programs by adopting one or all of the Wolf Center’s wolves. Preserve the legacy of the Sawtooth Pack by giving an adoption to someone or a local classroom.

e for mor

e giving op

portuniti

te olfcen w w w.w

See websit

$25

es!

Juvenile

r.org

$50

Yes!

• Poster of history and benefits • DVD • Photo Pack of Owyhee 8x10 Running • Certificate for

• Piyip photo for each child while supplies last • Info kit with individual adoption form and fundraiser challenge

CLICK HERE

$25

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Adult

• Photo pack 5x7 • Wolf plush with name tag • Certificate

Classroom- Juvenile

Visit our website to see photographs of each wolf.

Adopt one of the Owyhee Pack, or ALL of them!

• Photo of adopted wolf 5x7 • SLQ • Certificate • 1 free adult admission to WERC

$100

Adopt the Pack

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• Photo pack of Owyhees 5x7 • SLQ • Choice of 1 Owyhee Pack name t-shirt • “Running For Home” Book • Certificate

Home

$250

Can you find the book, hidden animals in this including the two on this cover?

by Gail McDiarmid &

Marilyn McGee

Illustrated by Durwood

Coffey

Yes!

Sawtooth Memorial Adoption • Photo pack of • DVD Owyhee 5x7 • Tribute Poster 11x14 • SLQ • Running For Home book

n

• Certificate • Choice of 2 Owyhee name t-shirts • Free admission for a family of 5

$500

Yes!

Sawtooth Memorial Adoption • All 11 wolves photo pack 8x10 • Tribute print 16x20 • Choice of 4 Owyhee name t-shirts • Premium Certificate

• SLQ • DVD • Free admission for a family of 5 • “Running for Home” book

Please mail the Adoption or Gift Adoption Packet to the following person, business, or school:

Member Number_______________________________________________________ Name _________________________________________________________________ School/Business_________________________________________________________ City_________________________________ State__ Zip________________________ Email________________________________ Phone (____)_______________________ Please mail completed form with check or money order to: WERC, P.O. Box 12604, Portland, OR 97212 or Visit: www.wolfcenter.org, click on the “Adopt a Wolf” menu.

Our team is making great progress on The Great Predator Debate: A Nation’s Dilemma and we are on track to release the second of three films this fall.

What’s particularly exciting about the collection of these interviews is the broad participation and the emerging vision for the next film in the series, A Nation’s Resolve.

Why would someone want to watch these films? First and foremost, there may be no greater assembly of perspectives on the subject available in one place. People and positions related to wolves and other carnivores are spread around the region and our film team has earned the trust and confidence to fairly represent each stakeholder’s voice.

Why would one want to support this film by pre-ordering the DVD or sponsoring a classroom? We have the chance to profoundly impact the level of understanding about

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this issue and influence the future of many species. Without intentional support of this project, the future is uncertain. With support, we’ll reach middle and high schools with a fair representation of the response from the larger community while creating a groundswell of future advocacy.

Our goal is simple. We aim to identify the varied perspectives and give voice to the stakeholders in the region. These voices are unedited and raw because we want to depict this issue in the context of people interacting with people, thus developing the relationships to pursue the solutions presented in the third installment.

Interviews include Fish & Game managers from three states, ranchers, trappers, teachers, and

more. The films feature some of the most engaged and critical minds on the subject of managing and teaching about carnivores in the Western United States.

Here are most of the departments, organizations, and people participating in these important films.

Wilson Wewa, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Alan Lacy, Filmmaker, Gray Area: Wolves of the Southwest Amy Atwood, Center for Biological Diversity Noah Greenwald, Center for Biological Diversity Dr. Todd Katzner, US Geological Survey Mike Keckler, Idaho Fish & Game Darrell & Lorna Smith, Western Wildlife Outreach Diane Gallegos, Wolf Haven International Casey Anderson, Montana Grizzly Experience

Rob Klavins, Oregon Wild Dave Ware, Washington State Fish & Game Rich Beausoleil, Washington State Fish & Game Stan Thomas, Oregon Trapper Dominic Aiello, Oregon Outdoor Council Chris Anderson, Wolf Education & Research Center Jeremy Heft, Wolf Education & Research Center AJ Chlebnik, Grizzly Discovery Center Brooks Fahy, Predator Defense Todd Nash, Oregon Cattleman’s Association Bob Beschte, Oregon State University Forestry Center Doug Cottam, Oregon Fish & Game

Read excerpts, on the next page, from a handful of the voices of stewardship that represent part of the discussion in The Great Predator Debate: A Nation’s Dilemma:

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The Great Predator Debate: An Nation’s Dilemma

DOUG COTTAM | Oregon Fish & Game “The more you know the less you realize you don’t know. And the whole issue with wildlife science is, it’s basically in its infancy. And just 20 years ago, the technology that we used to research on wildlife species is so much more advanced now, compared to then, that the amount of information we’re learning-- it’s totally different. For someone like myself, it is really exciting to see what modern technology is doing for the advancement and knowledge of wildlife sciences.”

BROOKS FAHY | Predator Defense “In my opinion, I really think what’s extraordinary about North America and pretty much all the apex predators that we have here is that, for the most part, they really don’t want anything to do with people. And where I really see management needing to be done is managing people.”

WILSON WEWA | Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs “Because our lives in the past were based on survival and a part of that survival was to be in harmony with all the life around us. We didn’t look at things as a dominant species over another species. We worked together with those other forms of life to coexist in the environment that we shared. Our people knew about hunting from watching the other animals, like cougars, wolves, bobcats, and the other animals that had to stalk their prey. So, many times through the thousands of years our people adapted those same skills…”

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The Great Predator Debate: An Nation’s Dilemma

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DR. TODD KATZNER | US Geological Survey “As a scientist I don’t think I think much about nature being balanced. Nature is in constant flux and no matter what changes you see, systems will go on. They don’t always go on in ways that humans want, so I guess I really do view nature as just a constantly changing system and there are going to be changes we like as humans and changes we don’t like.”

STAN THOMAS | Oregon Trapper

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“The first political arena that was ever set up in Salem was brought to order to address predator control. Very first political setting was to address predator control primarily because of wolves and bear in those days. It was because settlers were having a tough time dealing with them. And that was important enough that they didn’t talk about things like they do now. That was that important to our pioneer people because they were trying to stay alive and trying to raise a family and raise their livestock and dogs. That was what was important to them. It wasn’t a bicycle path or any of this stuff, it was simply trying to survive and make a living.”

PRE-ORDER THE DVD TODAY! You can help us by pre-ordering this important documentary today. Visit our website and order online or use the enclosed envelope. When you pre-order for $25 today, we’ll automatically send you the third DVD, The Great Predator Debate: A Nation’s Resolve when it releases at year’s end.

SPONSOR A CLASSROOM TODAY! Cultivate greater understanding of the predator debate by having WERC send the documentary to a middle school or high school in the fall of 2015. Simply contact lori.Prichard@WolfCenter.org and get the important conversation started with young people across the world.

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2015 NW Wild

Heritage Awards

WERC RECOGNIZES LOCAL SUPPORTERS Operating a world-class captive wolf educational facility in rural North Central Idaho poses many challenges. The oftenbrutal weather, the distance from supplies and equipment, and the proximity of wolfhating people are all obstacles to smooth working conditions. However, above all, two main concerns exist when caring for live animals in such remote locations—the acquisition of adequate wolf food and high quality veterinary care. WERC is honored to have found both dedicated food suppliers and superb veterinary oversight in rural Idaho. At the Summer Celebration, we recognized three local individuals who have literally created the foundation that allows WERC to exist in Winchester, Idaho. We are eternally grateful for the support of Dr. Nickol Finch, DVM; Rene Stamper; and Mike & Cindy Pratt, who have provided for our organization for many years.

This is our tribute to them, our friends.

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2015 NW Wild Heritage Awards

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Dr. Nickol Finch, DVM, has been involved with WERC since 2008, and has been the lead veterinarian to both the Sawtooth and Owyhee Packs since 2009. Nicky is also the head of the Exotics and Wildlife Department at the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, where she cares for a multitude of species from around the Northwest region. Although she specializes in raptor care and rehabilitation, Nicky has always maintained a passion for wolves. She has managed several difficult situations in both packs with great care and dedication. Recognizing and supporting our mission, Nicky donates her time to WERC, and has always made herself available 24/7/365 to Jeremy for consultation or on-site procedures. Not only has she been a long-time team leader for WERC wolf handlers, but Nicky has also become a good friend.

Rene Stamper has been involved with WERC since we moved the Sawtooth Pack to Winchester in 1996. She is THE original food supplier for the Sawtooth Pack: Wolves of the Nez Perce, and has provided the most whole-animal feeds for the pack throughout their lives. Rene raises goats, sheep, and chickens as a side business (she is also a pediatric nurse), and has been supportive of WERC since day one. She maintains regular communication with Jeremy about our food supply and is super-consistent about having wolf food on hand for us. Due to the pack’s feast or famine random diet and the irregular supply of road kill, wolf food needs are unpredictable. Rene has provided patient and dedicated support for ALL of our 19 years in Winchester. She was even a WERC staff member for several years. Rene has become more than a supporter of WERC….she and her kids are Wolf Camp family.

Likewise, Mike and Cindy Pratt have supported WERC for a very long time. They have been the top food supplier for both the Sawtooth and Owyhee Packs since 1998. Cindy and Mike own Marshall Meats, the local butcher and grocery shop in Winchester. They produce hundreds of pounds of meat scrap in their shop, and have been very gracious to allow us to use as much of this excellent wolf food as we need. Butcher scraps are approximately fifty percent of both pack’s diets, so the wolves would literally not have half of their nourishment without the Pratt’s generosity. Owning a cattle ranch themselves, Mike and Cindy acknowledge there are two sides to the presence of wild wolves, yet their support of WERC is an example of a healthy bridge between historically polarizing lifestyles. Not only have we built a bridge, but also a good friendship with Mike and Cindy.

We are very grateful to each of our Wild Heritage Award winners! Without their support, WERC would not be what it is today--and probably would not have survived in Winchester for the last 19 years. Thank you, friends! , a g e 45 re on p r.org See mo lfcente o .w w : ww or visit

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Gift Services/ Reservations

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The points of interest on our map just scratch the surface of what the Gem State has to offer. So when you come visit Wolf Camp, take some time to stay and play in the Idaho Panhandle!

Nicknamed “The Wilderness State,” Idaho offers some of the most diverse adventure opportunities in the world. Yes, there are a lot of other great places to experience the outdoors in the US and abroad, but Idaho is a best-kept secret…and it’s a lot more than just potatoes!

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Stay & Play in Northern Idaho

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Sandpoint lies on the shores of Idaho’s largest lake, 43-mile-long Lake Pend Oreille, and is surrounded by three major mountain ranges: the Selkirk, Cabinet and Bitterroot ranges. Sandpoint is home to Schweitzer Mountain Resort,

Sandpoint

For a unique and completely solitary experience, stay at one of the many fire lookout stations throughout Idaho (www.firelookout.org)

Bonners Ferry is a quaint town with pedestrian-friendly streets, many antique stores and a new visitor’s center.

Bonners Ferry/Kootenai River

If you plan to stay in or around Priest Lake, Elkins Guest Ranch has lakefront accommodations. Built in the 1930s, this cabin-style resort is 3.2 miles from Nordman. (elkinsresort.com)

A hikers’ paradise, there are many types of trails to choose from at Priest Lake with truly unforgettable views! There are beautiful trails to the upper lake, as well as spectacular hikes to historic lookout towers. No matter what your hiking skill level, Priest Lake has plenty to offer. (www.trails.com)

Priest Lake

Stay & Play in Northern Idaho

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Stay & Play in Northern Idaho

Idaho’s largest ski resort.

Sandpoint was named the nation’s “Most Beautiful Small Town” by USA Today in 2011.

For an authentic ranch experience, The Western Pleasure Guest Ranch is a favorite (westernpleasureranch.com)

for a perfect getaway. (www. stjoeriverbb.com/)

Lewiston Shorty Peak Fire Lookout Cabin

Coeur d’ Alene

The Coeur d’Alene area is surrounded by more than 55 lakes, but none more scenic and full of activities than Lake Coeur d’Alene itself.

You can fish, ski, golf, dine, shop, enjoy water sports, and visit the area’s Silverwood Theme Park. Accomodations range from tent camping to five star resorts. And, it’s all just 30 miles east of Spokane! (www.coeurdalene.org)

Stunning views from Schweitzer Mountain

Silverwood offers over 70 rides and attractions

St Joe River/Saint Maries

The St. Joe River offers anglers stunning beauty and worldclass cutthroat fishing. The St. Joe, with its rugged beauty, is a true Westslope Cutthroat stream, with fish that range 12-16” on average. (www. silverbowflyshop.com) The St. Joe Riverfront Bed and Breakfast in Saint Maries, believes a relaxed setting and a comfortable night’s sleep, followed by an “award winning” breakfast, makes

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World-class rafting abounds in Idaho rivers

Cultural displays in authentic settings

Lewiston is located at the confluence of the Snake River and Clearwater River, thirty miles (50 km) southeast of the Lower Granite Dam. The Port of Lewiston has the distinction of being the farthest inland port east of the West Coast of the United States.

A unique lodging experience for Lewiston vacationers is Kirby Creek Lodge. Not just a lodge or bed and breakfast on the river, it offers an expert river guide for fishing and boating, hunting, hiking, rafting and much more. Host Mike Luther is an expert guide on the Northwest river system. (Adventuresafloat kirbycreeklodge.com) Nez Perce National Historical Park sites are just 15 miles east of Lewiston on Hwy 12 in the small town of Lapwai.

Established in 1965 to tell the story of the Nez Perce Indians, the park is spread out over four states and follows the route of the 1877 conflict. The park started with 24 sites and expanded to 38 in 1992. Many events will be held throughout 2015, celebrating the park’s 50th anniversary. (nps.gov/nepe)