Shadow's behavior since the pups introduction has been remarkable. He's much more tolerant of the human handlers than he's ever been, he clearly spends time interacting and disciplining the pups and he takes his role of defending the enclosure more seriously than ever. Groups visiting the enclosure may see defensive barkhowling behavior first hand. He is relentless and often doesn't quit until the groups are escourted back into the building. A great educational moment for visitors.
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Snow depth in front of viewing window drifting in and high enough for wolves to climb on and start paying more interest in the roof line of the building. Vermilion Community College Natural Resource students lock wolves in holding pen and shovel banked snow in front of the window. Wolves released and spent several minutes scent marking the recently moved snow. Roof lines no longer an issue thanks to Vermilion Students…
Shadow spent most of the week reasserting his role in the pack. He was observed riding up on Grizzer and forcing him to the ground to submit. He also had several noisy, intense dominance bouts with Malik. But, despite all this, he seems to be tolerating the wolf care staff well, and is enjoying the cold, snowy weather. He was observed in play with the pups several times, before turning back into the pack disciplinarian.
Meds to all, Malik submissively rolled over for Nancy Jo Tubbs, and allowed her to scratch his underside. This positive conditioning towards submission makes medical examination easier and is encouraged whenever possible, but staff must be cautious to avoid being in close proximity of the other wolves when making an individual submit. Malik and Shadow take advantage of each other when either is in a submissive posture. Staff are instructed to not get in the middle of this situation, as the wolf on the ground tends to spring up snapping with canines. The retired wolves are much more likely to submit, but MacKenzie and Lakota have the same issues. MacKenzie is still the dominant female in the pack and doesn't like being submissive in front of Lakota.
MacKenzie and Lucas dominance over Lakota, MacKenzie bit Lakota's front and rear legs causing Lakota a slight limp on the rear and licking on the front leg. This may have started over Lakota defending a deer from Lucas and MacKenzie.
Good greetings to all, Meds, and Ivermectin to all wolves. Garlic given to Arctics – Arctics using holding area without problems.
Mackenzie and Lucas had much more interaction today. They were observed face licking, with Mackenzie on her back, Lucas would then roll on Mackenzie and then they would reverse rolls. Near the end of the 15 minute display, Mackenzie was observed resting her chin on Lucas's neck. Overall the wolves seemed very relaxed today.
Malik tries to cache a rawhide outside in the soil. Pups seem eager to go into the auditorium for presentations.
Pups have their first extra long day, starting with a photo shoot, then four programs* and ending with a VIP Presentation which lasted until 9pm. A cowlick was noticed between Malik's eyes, reminding me of Lakota.
Former student worker, Damon Haan visited the Center this weekend. The wolves were very excited to see him. The retired wolves were very active during his visit, Lakota showed no sign of favoring her foot. Two more bales of straw have been added to the retired enclosure since the area is very compacted, and no longer has the insulating value of fresh fallen snow.
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