The biologist gives the wolf an exam and records the sex of the animal, weight, length, height, checks the ears, eyes, skin, feet, joints, rear, mouth, teeth, and if the animal has injuries, (wounds, etc). Examining the mouth can determine the age of the wolf by how worn the teeth are. Below is an illustration showing the wearing of teeth, and how to estimate the age of the animal.
Lastly, the biologist will put a properly fitted radio tracking (telemetry) collar on the wolf if it requires one, to help track the movement of the pack or particular wolf if it was causing mischief with humans or livestock. The wolf is released after the radio tracking collar is placed around it's neck.
There are 3 types of radio tracking collars; VHF, GPS, and Satellite. The radio collars can range from $300-$4500. Most are pretty accurate on giving the location and movement of the animal. Depending on the type of collar, biologist can track a wolf from their office which helps save time, is less expensive, and does not disturb the animal. The battery life in some models can last up to three years. Each collar sends out a different radio signal usually with a beeping sound. The biologist use a receiver with an antenna to pick up the sound from the collar. In the above photo, Anna is holding up the antenna, and circling around for the loudest signal which will sound when it is pointed in the direction of the collared wolf. The compass is used to show which direction the wolf is in.
Observation in Captivity and the Use of Ethograms
Wolf research in captivity is another way to study wolf behavior. In animal facilities such as a zoo or a wildlife center, the keeper of wolves observe the animals through the use of sight and sound. They record their observations using a Ethogram.
An Ethogram is a list of behaviors with definitions, grouped into categories according to the type of behavior an animal is doing. Some types of behaviors might be solitary behaviors, food-related behaviors, social behaviors and aggressive behaviors. Continuous observation of the whole pack can sometimes be a challenge but is the best way to record and see the most behaviors between the animals. Many ethograms include a letter or number (code) that the researcher can quickly use as a shorthand notation for a certain type, or multiple behaviors. For example: R = Rest, ST = Stalk, S-R = Scent Roll, etc.
Wolf Park in Indiana is an education and research facility devoted to the study of wolf behavior. Since 1972, the staff at Wolf Park observed their animals every day. Some days they look for a specific behavior. Many people around the world come to Wolf Park to learn about wolf behavior.
Many thanks to the Wolf Park staff and volunteers for all of the love, devotion, and care, and for all that they have taught us over the years about wolves. You guys ROCK!.
A Special thanks to David Scholes for the use of his photo for part 3 of our blog series.
Join us next week for part 4 of "Wolves For You" We will be talking about Introduction, Courting, and Breeding of Wolves.
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