June 15, 2008
 Our day began with a rush of mixed emotions. Wolf watchers were on a knoll intently looking through their spotting scopes so we knew there was a wolf nearby. Moments later we were watching a chase with a lone Gray Wolf running after two adult Bison and a calf. We thought we would witness a calf kill. Suddenly the chase stopped. The wolf slowly circled as the Bison moved to protect the calf with their massive bodies. We held our breath, focusing on the scene. Some of us wondered, "Will I watch? Will I root for the wolf or the calf?" Minutes later the wolf simply turned and walked away.
On a lighter note, we spent several minutes hovered around a pit toilet in Lamar watching Cliff Swallows building their mud-daubed nests under the eaves of the building. The birds flew to gather mud, bringing it back and artfully daubing it on their nests. We learned that Cliff Swallows now nest in North Carolina and continue to expand their range.
After breakfast, we went on a hike with wildlife photographer Dan Hartman and his daughter, Cassie. During our hike, we searched for signs of Grizzlies and Black Bears. Dan was armed with a can of bear spray (a powerful pepper spray) which is advisable when hiking in grizzly country.
We ended this incredible day by doing a Bison observation activity along the Lamar River. As we watched, a Coyote walked through a group of Pronghorn and Bison. The Pronghorn seemed agitated by its presence and kept circling it. Finally, the Pronghorn moved off and the Coyote started poking its head into Ground Squirrel holes, finally catching and eating one.
Q & A for June 15 |
