malik – May 1, 2007 12:00 AM

This photo is interesting as it shows the tenacity of Malik as he tries to gain back status from a winter spent as the third ranking male. But, the photo also shows the strong influence Shadow has on the pack dynamics. Grizzer is in a submissive posture, and he places his head beneath Shadow showing his submissive status to the dominant male. Shadow isn’t intimidated by Malik’s posturing, so he’s responding with direct eye contact back to Malik. It is a good sign that Grizzer still sees Shadow as the dominant pack mate and protector of this pack. One important behavior to note is the importance of possession rights with food. As the video shows, even though Malik is the third ranking male, he has the right to possess food from any other pack member. In the video, Grizzer attempts to approach Malik, but Malik is clearly in possession of his bone. While Malik’s ear posture turns submissive and he averts Grizzer’s gaze, Grizzer respects his right to possess food and walks away. This is one of the social rules in a wolf pack, if you get something, whether by tug-of-war, stealing or catching it, you have the right to guard it and keep it no matter your rank. The key is you must have possession. If you step away from the item, it’s up for grabs from any wolf.