Canis Lupus. The controversial wolf an animal loved and hated by so many.  They were eradicated in the 19th and early 20th century by federal government poisoning campaigns. Mostly due to ranching opposition and being afraid of the "Big bad wolf." He has gotten quite a bad rep throughout history. I personally find them beautiful. An amazing example of unity and teamwork. "For the strength of the Pack is the wolf and the strength of the wolf is the Pack."

I find wolves fascinating and never seem to get tired of wanting to know more. Their piercing eyes,  their beautiful form all too appealing to not want to draw and see what makes a wolf, a wolf. Such elegance and design. All built with such amazing features evolving into amazing unique creatures. 

At one time between 250,000 and 500,000 wolves roamed the North American continent living along Native Americans and the rest of the ecosystem. In the 60s a wolf control policy took to effect and raged war on this "vermin." The remaining 300 wolves in the lower 48 states survived in the upper Michigan and Minnesota. In the 70s the reports of wolf sightings were few and the publics concern and interest increased. Wolf restoration efforts has been very successful and as a result are now again part of the the northern Rocky ecosystem. 

The following wolf video has spread thru social media. I thought I would post it for those that haven't watched it. Enjoy it. I've seen it several times and I always end up doing the same thing afterwards. I get my sketchbook out and draw wolves. Try it. They're challenging and they're fantastic creatures. Hopefully with enough education and the right guidance they will forever howl.

Manny