grizzer – Jul 6, 2010 12:00 AM

Of all the wolves in the Exhibit, Grizzer appears to be the only wolf showing some distinct behavioral changes since Shadow's retirement. All other pack members are calm, and show very little interest in the fence line towards retirement. Grizzer isn't anxious, but more subdued since Shadow's retirement. He is far more reserved with staff, and while he socially interacts with the pack, he doesn't initiate as much social behavior as Denali. Grizzer is a wolf that typically avoids conflict, and without a clear dominant wolf, some individuals can show uncertainty. This is why ritualized dominance is so important to a wolf pack. While Grizzer received most of Shadow's intense dominance, it was clear he was 2nd ranking. Grizzer seems to be an individual that avoids conflict, and may not seek the position of pack leader. Wolf Ethology Students: Lisa Hazel, Rich Schoenwiesner, Vicky Van Hamme, Patti Barss made the following observations: <br> In general, Grizzer has spent much time by himself watching the other three ambassador wolves interact. He is often resting in a higher spot, either on a rock or hillside. When walking and exploring, tail position is predominantly T2, at times T3. Grizzer has joined in rally howls, usually positioned away from the rest of the pack and in a resting position. As Aidan and Denali have been testing Grizzer this week, he has responded by chasing and pinning each of them with a soft muzzle bite.