Posterous theme by Cory Watilo

A walk on the whiffy side

Wolfwalk

Have you ever wanted to meet a wolf? Or even wondered what it's like to walk amongst them? 

Me neither, but I know someone who does.I recently met someone who is planning on taking a nature walk with a difference - she is spending the day with a whole pack.

Now I didn’t know you could do that outside of Canada! Did you? Apparently, here in the UK it‘s becoming quite popular, but it’s not for me and Little Red Riding Hood didn’t think much of it either!

I have nothing but admiration for anyone who could stride out surrounded by wolves. And to let any wild animal get a good sniff, is asking to be the main dish for a tasty picnic in the woods. 

  So I’ve done a bit of research on the subject in case any of you fancy a walk on the wild side…

  • Listen carefully to the safety briefing: First of all the wolves are introduced to the walkers - “Good morning wolfy what big teeth you have” - walkers stand with sleeves rolled up, arms outstretched and offer their bunched up fists to the wolves, who may or may not be interested enough to get your scent. 
  • Don’t wear anything with dangly bits: Buttons, toggles and belts flapping about could excite the wolf and tempt him into a quick nibble.
  • No perfume or smelly soap: In fact just don’t wash for a few days beforehand then you can smell like a wolf yourself.
  • At last the handlers set them off across the fields allowing an excellent view of them as they sniff, pee and scratch. Nice!
  • Watch the wolves interact within their environment - rolling in something disgusting before they brush alongside you and rub it off on your new jeans. 
  • There are usually opportunities to see the wolves up close and personal and the wolves may be willing to be stroked on the tummy.  A firm hand is advised, but don’t tickle, they don’t like that. You can try this under the supervision of a handler. 
  • Do not pat them on the head as this can also allow you to lose a few fingers although it would make a good frame for Animals Do The Funniest Things.
  • Throughout the walk volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions and hopefully they will have a first aid kit.
  • If you are lucky you may get to hear a wolf's howl: The wolves will often call to the other packs back in their enclosures, to set up an ambush on your return. 

Owwwwwwooooooooooooooo! 

Howling_wolf
 Click on  http://ukwct.org.uk and hit the 'walk' tab.