Denali – Always about the Food

Denali shows that even though he’s not standing over his food possession, he still has the right to defend it.  In this photo, he shows the classic “Lip Curl” which is a threat display showing the canines.  We can interpret the intensity of the interaction based on how many teeth are showing.  Denali is pretty serious here, but we also see another posture that indicates he’s not very confident.  His ear posture is turned to the side in a more submissive or intimidated response.  If he was confident, his ears would have been pricked forward.  Even though there is a social right of every pack member to possess and guard food, sometimes showing a threat display towards the pack leader can add a little intimidation.  Of course, Denali didn’t get to be the largest wolf in the Exhibit Pack by letting a little intimidation get in the way of a meal.  For Denali, it’s always about the food, not so much concern over the rank.