Research- Grey Wolf

As the wolf is the subject of my project, I wanted to gather as much research as I could on it. In doing so I wanted to be as knowledgable about the animal I would eventually be filming/working with. I believe it is easier to work with something/someone once you know a lot more about it/them. This research would also benefit me when interviewing people who're experts on wolves, as I will be able to converse with them about the animal, as I know a lot more about it. Similarly I will be able to ask more in-depth questions that I might not have thought of before researching wolves.

Here are some bits of information I discovered about wolves through my research:

• Wolf lacks are established according to a strict hierarchy, with a dominant alpha male and female at the top. Usually this make and female are the only animals of the pack to breed. Packs consist of between five and ten animals- usually offspring from several years. All of a packs adults help them to take care for young pups by bringing them food ad watching them whilst others hunts. 
• Wolves develop close relationships and strong social bonds. They often demonstrate deep affection for their family and may even sacrifice themselves to protect the family unit. 
• Wolves were once common throughout the northern hemisphere, right across North America, Europe and Asia. In the past people hunted them mercilessly. I many areas they died out all together. 
• Smell is the most important sense for wolves. They Follow scent trails left behind by other animals in their quest for food and can pick up whiffs of scent in the wind. This helps them figure out the direction of distant prey. Candids that hunt in packs use scent to identify and communicate with other pack members. 
• Wolves are carnivores. They kill prey for fresh meat, but also eat carrion (dead animals). When no meat is available wolves eat plants, such as fruit and berries and also grass to aid digestion. 

Below are pictures of some wolf research in my sketchbook. These pages consist of information about the wolfs appearance. Its habitat, diet, family, social structure and senses.