YELLOWSTONE'S WILD WORLD

The rain was pouring over the morning and after yesterday’s 70 degrees, it was cold.  And, of course, I had decided to break out my summer uniform, expecting warmer weather.  But, I was fooled.

By the time I reached Lamar Valley, nothing was being seen on the carcass.  A grizzly bear was grazing nearby and it is possible it feasted on the wolves food during the night.  The rain came down even harder and so I sat in my car and waited.  Waited until Rick yelled out that a black wolf was crossing the creek.

It was 926, quickly followed by Twin.  The pair went to the carcass and tugged away.  After awhile Twin went up on the hill and looked around.  Perhaps he sensed something, I am not sure but he stayed there until 926 finished and left, carrying a hunk of meat.  And, once again, after a few bites, Twin followed behind.

926 went immediately back into her den, which means there are live puppies up there for her to care for.  But, it is scary to see her away from them this early, when they need her body heat.  We never did see Mottled so perhaps he is the babysitter.

I then left and went into town to do some  errands and such before returning later in the day.

The afternoon seemed to explode with wildlife activity.

A great horned owl is on its nest  in Mammoth and a falcon was discovered down the way.  While passing Undine Falls, I noticed a large black bear back behind the creek.  I kept going.  Another black bear was being hazed from housing at Tower.  And, another black bear with COY was running around Little America.

Still, I kept going.

926 was back on the carcass when I arrived and she stayed for maybe 30 minutes.  The carcass looked like it was going fast and I doubt there will be much tomorrow.  She then left and decided to take another route, no doubt because I was ready to stop traffic for her the normal way.  I arrived at that pullout just as she disappeared into the creek, after being very close, and then went through the sage, crossed the road and back to the den.

Twin had gone onto the carcass to feed but he came along shortly.  We expected him to do the same thing but he kept going.  Later, he disappeared and we were standing in a pullout, sort of looking  but not really.  I only had my binoculars, which I regretted when that danged wolf appeared in front of us!  I did go to the car and grab the camera but there was no time for the tripod.  Twin came onto the road and got to the other side to stop for just awhile before continuing on.  He is one beautiful wolf!

I then headed for home but stopped at Hell Roaring where, with Bill’s help, I was able to see 8 Prospect Peak.  They were specks a million miles away so it was kind of a feat to find them. And, to recognize 965 but he is so large and distinctive.

It was a good bear and wolf day, though I did not take a single image of a bruin.  All of that was between Mammoth and Lamar, along with tons of elk and bison with new little calves.

Tomorrow the gate opens to Hayden Valley and on out the East Gate.   Bear heaven and there should be some new little ones.  So, hard choices on which way to go as the park seems to be buzzing with life right now.

Whatever  you decided, have a great time.

Deby