Site hosted by Angelfire.com: Build your free website today!



      Throughout ancient history the Wolf was admired
      and respected as a symbol of strength, intelligence
      and courage. Neolithic artists duplicated its
      image on cave walls. Shamans sought its power.
      Even Romulus and Remus, founders of Rome, were
      reportedly nurtured and raised by Wolves.
      Eventually, this noble legend became the
      "bloodthirsty savage" of Euro-American lore.
      Hatred of the Wolf, which sometimes preyed upon
      livestock, reached hysterical proportions.
      Fear over economic loss led to the near extermination
      of the Wolf from western Europe, southern Canada
      and the United States.



      "Man's Best Friend"

      Today, most authorities agree that all dogs
      are descended from Wolves. Controversy remains
      over where Wolves were first domesticated.
      Some experts believe that domestication first
      occurred in the Near East 10,000 - 12,000 years ago.
      Impressive in size and strength, Wolves were
      easily recognized as the largest members of the
      wild dog family. From nose to tip of tail,
      "man's best friend" averages 5 feet in length,
      stands 2-1/2 feet high at the shoulder and weighs
      up to 155 pounds or more.



      "The Wolf Song"

      With eyes closed and head tilted upward,
      the Wolf sends forth its timeless haunting song.
      On quiet nights, a single howl can be heard for
      over 50 square miles. Howling serves as long-distance
      communication, reuniting pack members that have
      separated to hunt. These lingering calls also help
      Wolves to define their territory. Neighboring packs
      chorus back and forth throughtout the night,
      announcing their presence and proclaiming their land.
      Human listerners remain profoundly mystified by these
      ancient cries.



      There is no record of human death by a healthy
      wolf in modern records.