My day with the wolfs at Kolmarden

 

me and Devil
January 13 2001 a few people working for the Swedish Spaniel and Retriever Club (eastern branch) went down to Kolmarden to meet with the wolfs!!
It was a beautiful day, cold but the sun was shining from a clear sky. You can only visit the wolfs during the winter when the brown bear has goen into hibernation.
They love in the same area as the wolfs and are not "as friendly". The visit started with a little lectoru about the wolfs and a video tape of course. They told us that the puppies were fed from the 2nd day which made them, not only used to people but socialized with people. There were a lot of questions and many comparisons with dogs. They also told us that the bitches were not supposed to be in an area where tourists were allowed because they had a lower status than the males and might be trying to "climb" which could cause problems. They also told us that the males were more affectionate than the females.
They told us about the males we were going to meet, Devil, Eros, Athos and Porthos, four litter brothers 6 years old. They told us about the accession of a new leader; approximately two years ago the wolfs got a dear for supper. Porthos the leader at that time gave some of the meat to the rest of the pack but kept almost half the dear to himself. He ate it all. Somewhat slow and very satisfied he was tested by his brothers and since he wasn´t as quick in his reactions as normally he was thrown out and Devil became the new leader.
Devil
With this piece of information and a lot more we were ready to meet with the walfs. Many of us were very anxious to know if the meeting with the wolfs would feel as meeting a strange dog. Looking at the attitude most of us had I understood that this wasn´t the case. The expectations and the curiosity between us was great.
Although these "wolf boys" had been fed by humans they inspired respect and we moved closer very slowly.
Porthos
The language between the wolfs was so evident that we were astonished and just took it all in. The language was crystal clear and very easy to understand. Porthos the dethroned leader had to stay away until he humbly asked permission and was so granted. We realized that we were dealing with wolfs and not dogs and that the difference was immense, they must be treated with respect because of what they are.....WOLFS!
Athos
Porthos and Eros
The day ended and the day with the wolfs passed too quickly. We all have memories for life and they will take a long time to "digest".
Thank you ALL for a memorable day at Kolmarden!