To make observations of wolves, we flew over frozen waterways until tracks were found, and then followed the tracks until we lost them or saw the wolves ([fig. 4]). Several times we located wolves directly just by scanning the lakes. However, because there seemed to be a number of packs in the area, and because most wolves were the same color (with the exception of a few black or white individuals) (see Mech and Frenzel, [page 60]), it usually was not possible to follow packs from one day to the next and be certain of identification. Moreover, it was impossible to locate any pack at will because most wolves also spent much time inland.
Figure 4.—An important technique used in the study involved aerial tracking and observing of wolf packs. (Photo courtesy of L. D. Frenzel.)
Therefore, to facilitate our observations and to obtain data on wolf movements and extent of range, we began a radiotracking program in 1968-69. A professional trapper, Robert Himes, was employed to capture the wolves. Using Newhouse No. 4 and 14 steel traps at scent-post sets, he caught two wolves, and captured another with a live-snare similar to that used by Nellis (1968); the senior author trapped two additional wolves ([fig. 5]).
Figure 5.—A wolf caught in a trap. (Photo courtesy of D. L. Breneman.)
The four wolves held in steel traps were restrained by a choker ([fig. 6]), and then anesthetized by intramuscular injections ([fig. 7A, B]) of a combination of 30 mg. of phencyclidine hydrochloride (Sernylan, Parke-Davis Co.) and 25 mg. promazine hydrochloride (Sparine, Wyeth Laboratories) as prescribed by Seal and Erickson (1969); these drugs proved most satisfactory.