Yellowstone National Park is much less popular during the winter months, with many roads and accommodations closed to regular vehicles and visitors. But winter in Yellowstone can provide unbelievable tourist experiences, with opportunities to view the park’s geothermal features, geologic features, and stunning wildlife in relative solitude.
Yellowstone is home to between 83 and 123 wolves split up into about 10 wolf packs. Wolves feed on different foods depending on where they live, but they tend to prey on hoofed animals inside the park. Usually they’ll hunt deer and smaller mammals during the summer, turning their attention towards elk come the winter.
This lone wolf was filmed pushing two elk towards a cliff. Knowing they had nowhere to go, the elk stand their ground while the wolf waits for one of them to make a move.
Yellowstone’s wolves are an incredible sight to see, but their presence must be taken seriously. Like any wildlife in the park, wolves need space, at least 100 yards (300 feet) at all times. Elk should be given at least 25 yards, or 75 feet, at all times, and neither should ever be approached. 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.