The level of anticipation was high as Museum staff collected around the Red Wolf Enclosure. The word had gone out that female red wolf 1794 was about to be released into the enclosure with her new companion 1784 who, himself, had been released only six days prior.

The male red wolf was also anxious, pacing back and forth, looking at his new mate through the kennel’s chain link fence. He, no doubt, wondering why all of we humans were standing in front of him doing the same thing, watching for the female. There were plenty of opportunities for photos of the male as he wandered around excitedly.

Animal Department Director Sherry opened the gate. Slowly and cautiously the female stepped out into the enclosure, pensively sniffing her way through the trees.

The male tried on several occasions to lead her away, but she would have no part of it, she wanted to explore her new home, “then maybe we’ll get aquatinted.”

There should be little trouble telling these two wolves from one another. Although both are similar in size their pelage is quite different. One sure characteristic of the female which should cause no confusion is her very gray face.

Compare with the male below.

You will surely be seeing updates on the progress of these two wolves. Keep an eye on the Animal Department’s blog for the latest.