Oct. 31, 2019

Wild wolf appears to be visiting the enclosure

Boltz. Photograph courtesy of Kelly Godfrey

The leaves are falling fast, and so are the daily temperatures. Earlier this week, Ely got a light dusting of snow, which melted later in the day. The sunsets as of late have been incredible, with the sun hitting and highlighting the remaining leaves of Fall.

The Exhibit Pack has been heard howling frequently these past couple days, and they seem focused on the back fence line of the enclosure. There have been reports of a wild wolf hanging around the area, and this could be a possible explanation for the behavior. Even in captivity, wolves are territorial and highly aware of things going on around them.

Special thanks to Kelly Godfrey, who took the two photographs in this post.

 

Oct. 17, 2019

Fall has arrived in Ely

Fall has arrived with dynamic colors on the maple trees and some dynamic behavior from the young adults.  In this photo, Axel is doing a ride up on Denali with his tail extended above his back in what we term a T-1 tail.  At 11 years of age, Denali maintains a wide stance for support, but his wagging tail held in a relaxed position demonstrates the lack of concern about these interactions.  Grayson is coming around the tree in an intimidated ear posture called Ears Turned Sideways and Slanted Back or ETSB if you are familiar with our Ethogram codes.  Grayson’s expression is more of intimidation likely in response to his brother’s dominant posture.  Notice Boltz is not in the mix; he has been using the medical pen and den to avoid some conflict with Axel.  He’s still an active pack member, just a bit more cautious when Axel’s tail extends above the back.