In addition to its remarkable hydrothermal and geologic features, Yellowstone National Park is widely known for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Even in the winter, when park attendance is down significantly and most roads are closed to cars, the wildlife experiences can be unlike anything else.
Yellowstone is home to around 10 wolf packs, making up somewhere between 83 and 123 total wolves. Wolf diet varies depending on where the animals live, but in the park they tend to prey on hoofed animals. In the summer, this tends to mean deer and smaller mammals, but when the winter comes around, their diet winds up being about 90% elk.
In this video, captured on a private winter wildlife tour in Yellowstone’s Northern Range, shows 11 members of the park’s Junction Pack attempting to take down some bull elk. Unfortunately for the wolves, all of the elk were able to escape unscathed.
Even in the winter, wildlife safety should always be taken seriously. These viewers seem to be plenty far away from both the elk and the wolves, using telephoto lenses to capture the video. Wolves should always be given at least 100 yards, or 300 feet, of space, while elk should be given at least 25 yards, or 75 feet, of space. Never approach a wild animal. Read more on wolf safety below:
Yellowstone National Park Wolf Safety Guidelines:
Wolves are not normally a danger to people, unless they become habituated to their presence and food (there has never been an attack in Yellowstone). Two habituated wolves have been killed in the park. Help us protect wolves in Yellowstone by:
- Remaining at least 100 yards away when watching or photographing them.
- Telling a ranger if you see wolves near developed areas or approaching people.
- Keeping your dog leashed at all times when it’s outside a vehicle.
If you’re concerned about a wolf because it’s too close or not showing any fear of people, stand tall and hold your ground. If the wolf approaches you, wave your arms, yell, and flare your jacket. If that doesn’t discourage it, throw something at it or use bear spray. Group up with other people, continue waving and yelling, and tell a ranger as soon as possible.
Do not handle wolf scat: it may contain tapeworm eggs that can cause hydatid disease in humans.