[pct-l] Gray Wolf in California

[Ken Powers]

I have had 2 encounters with wolves - neither near the PCT.

In Utah we were following the tracks of a LARGE dog when caching water. When 
we hiked back thru the area we were aware that there might be wolves in the 
area. As we passed the area where the tracks disappeared we heard a wolf 
howl. Gave me goosebumps! What a rare treat!

On the Idaho Centennial Trail we sat down for our morning break sitting 
above a small stream. A doe came flying thru the willows directly at us. She 
hit the ground a couple feet in front of us and made an amazingly quick turn 
to just avoid trampling us. A few seconds later a wolf crossed the stream on 
the trail just to our right. It trotted behind us down the trail after the 
deer. It was within arms length of us. This all happened with a few seconds 
so there is no picture, but I still can see the wolf in my mind!


I don't think wolves are interested in hiker food. Or hikers for that 
matter. Enjoy the rare opportunity! Take its picture if you can. It will be 
a moment you will treasure.

Ken
----- Original Message ----- 
From: <aslive at charter.net>
To: "PCT-L" <pct-l at backcountry.net>
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2012 9:46 AM
Subject: [pct-l] Gray Wolf in California



I just saw where a gray wolf has traveled from northeastern Oregon to
northern California near MT Shasta.  He is being tracked via a GPS
collar.  Should he wonder on to the PCT, or if any of us are in his
area, How should we deal with him?

If we are out of bear canister country, I guess hanging food would be
wise as would be making sure that your tent is food free.  Pepper spray
might be helpful as might a larger knife although I hope it doesn't come
to that.

Would moth balls be helpful?

I just would not want to wake up in the middle of the night, bound in my
mummy bag with a wolf licking my face!

Anyone have any experience with wolf encounters.  I believe that they
have a right to exist and all, I just want to be educated and prepared.
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