Ambassador Wolf Program
The Ambassador Wolf Program has been in existence for almost two decades. Wolves are wild animals and often have temperaments that make them tend to fear or be shy of humans. Every now and then, however, there comes a wolf that is comfortable in the company of humans, accepting of wearing a leash, and excited about traveling. When these attributes fall into play, an ambassador wolf is born.
The Ambassador Wolf Program worked its way over years of traveling in a school bus with Shaman, the first ambassador, to a more accommodating commercial touring bus. The ambassador wolves have toured annually from Colorado to the East Coast in the fall and to the West Coast in the spring. The Wolf Bus is adapted to accommodate wolves for travel. Their enclosure encompasses the entire center section of the bus. The handlers responsible for the wolves have earned the trust of these ambassadors. In turn, by learning wolf behaviors and responding appropriately, the handlers show tremendous respect for the wolves. While on the road for weeks at a time, the wolves are given opportunities to exercise with their handlers safely through woodlands and in water along deserted beaches.
Throughout the year these ambassadors also excite and educate visitors who frequent the refuge in Colorado. They have appeared numerous times on national television, been featured in National Geographic Publications, made appearances on the floors of Congress, and other prestigious appointments. Their message always the same; to encourage an understanding of and respect for nature, its land and its inhabitants. The motto of the Ambassador Wolf Program is “Education vs. Extinction”. Enhancement and restoration of nature can only happen when the public is aware of its influence on our environment and is willing to promote a return to that which has almost been lost. This requires a renewal of the connection of humans to nature. An educational experience with a live wolf can accomplish what lecture and slide show presentations simply cannot do alone. The dynamic of experiencing the presence of a majestic wolf is afforded to us by Mission: Wolf’s Ambassador Program.
