| Image Title: Wolf with Mange, Yellowstone NP Photographer's Notes:
during a snow storm. The uncollared wolf was originally part of the Gardiner Hole Group. This pack has since disbanded. It is losing hair due to a mite (Sacroptes scabei). Constant itching and scratching the irritated skin causes loss of hair across the affected areas... Not a good situation during the middle of winter in the northern Rocky Mountain region! At the time this picture was taken, it was undetermined as to the future of this animal. If this wolf was to mingle with others, the small mite could easily spread to other wolves, causing them to loose their hair. If park biologists remove this animal from the ecosystem, I believe this would be the first wolf to be managed in such a way - removal due to a non-native disease. This image is currently available in multiple sizes. To place an order: Please fill out and submit your contact information and questions about image. Please specify the image title you are inquiring about. |