Grey Wolf
According to US Fish & Wildlife Service estimates as of early December 2006, over 1260 wolves populate the three states of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming after having been transplanted back to the region just 10 years earlier. Montana has approximately 59 packs comprising over 300 animals; Wyoming has 314 animals found in 34 packs and Idaho has over 650 in 70 packs (mostly located central and north central wilderness areas of the state). more info
Grey Wolf Listings: (add your listing)
Yellowstone Safari Company - See Wildlife!
Private, biologist guided National Park tours, bear and wolf safaris, wildlife river safaris, hiking, llama treks, camping. Once-in-a-lifetime memories guaranteed!
(866) 586-1155
The Gaze of a Gray Wolf
© Vertical Media
The primary food source for the wolf is the elk, and since their reintroduction back into Yellowstone Park, wolves have been doing their job of keeping elk numbers in check. Of all the predators near the top of the food chain (man excluded), experts agree that the wolf is, by far, the most resourceful, efficient and smartest hunter in North America.
Because their family structure is so tight nit, and the chain of command is well understood among members of a wolf pack, wolves have been able to proliferate at a rate faster than most experts expected. They are very social in their makeup with both mothers and fathers of animals taking turns raising their young. When hunting for food, pack' members have very distinct roles and pecking orders. Any animal that threatens leadership positions can often be met with a fight to the death, or banishment from the pack, forced to then live a life of exile.
Though it will be pretty rare for visitors to Big Sky to see wolves in the wild, your chances greatly improve in winter months. We suggest taking a tour with a local wildlife tour outfitter to see Yellowstone's northern range (the prairies and mountain plateaus located just inside the Park's north entrance from Gardiner east to the Lamar Valley). In this portion of the Park, you should be able to witness wolves in the wild as they follow local elk herds during winter months. Outfitters often provide spotting scopes or binoculars for free use. For photography, a telephoto lens is a must, especially one that is at least 300mm or more.
Big Sky, MT Weather
Currently Outside 55FClear. Refreshingly cool. |
