She tastes like chicken

To keep my conscience clear, I am going to start off with a disclaimer. I try to write in a humorous and interesting way. And, I do very occasionally stretch the truth in the spirit of fun. So, let me pass along the clear message from our gracious hosts at Wolf Creek Habitat. Wolves do not hunt people. Nor, do wolves eat people. In fact, as a rule in the wild, wolves will do everything in their power to avoid humans. Wolf Creek Habitat is about rescuing wolves and educating humans. There, I said it. I have done right by the folks of Wolf Creek Habitat. Therefore, if any subsequent writings suggest wolves to be violent or dangerous, its merely a jest. For example, I did not actually hear a wolf say, “she tastes like chicken.” End of disclaimer

Southern Indiana is not the first place that comes to mind when you think about wolf rescues. But, perhaps it should be…

Wolf Creek Habitat is a small non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing wolves and educating humans. By “small” organization, I mean its a husband and wife, about 40 wolves, and 3 foxes (for some reason). Additionally, a small, but dedicated, network of volunteers also supports the organization. The Wolf Creek property is located in a wooded area of southern Indiana, about an hour northwest of Cincinnati. The property consists of many large, fenced in, enclosures. Each enclosure has a small wolf pack of varying numbers. About half the wolves were brought here after being rescued from some cruel or neglectful situation. And, the other half were actually born on site. This is no zoo. Its designed to be interactive and educational for visitors. And, by “interactive,” I mean interactive…

This is truly one of the most unique experiences that I have found. Basically, the host takes you to several different wolf packs where you get to make your own wolf experience. The wolves that you visit are very happy to see you. Belly rubs are very popular. In truth, visitors can not interact with all the packs. However, there is a system of elevated boardwalks that allow you to see all the wolf packs on property. Needless to say, there are a lot of sleepy wolves. But, for the wolf packs that are friendly to visitors, you will never forget their wolfly hospitality.

I want to wrap up with the obvious ethical question. Is this good for the wolves? Honestly, I have mixed feelings. As I said earlier, half the wolves are rescues. For these wolves, this is good. The owners provide the rescues with a new pack, as well as the best of food and medical care. The owners love the wolves and dedicate their lives to taking care of them. And, I have no doubts that these wolves are treated exceptionally well. On the other hand, half the wolves were born here, intentionally. By intentionally, I mean that they breed only when the owners allow it. They use some wolf contraception to control the numbers. In my mind, maybe breeding additional wolves in this captivity is not ideal. But, all in all, I think its more good than bad.

Wolf Creek Habitat is open to the public most weekends. Its free to show up and walk the boardwalks. Then, its $50 or so if you want to interact with the wolves. As always, I spoil Carol greatly. I paid a bit more than $50 for a private VIP tour during the week. When we pulled into the parking lot that morning, every wolf in the place howled in welcome. It was an amazing serenade. Without a doubt, I loved this experience. I will never forget that morning with these wolves. PT

Thanks for reading “She tastes like chicken” on Traveling with PugsleyTonks.

If you enjoyed that post, you may wish to read this one https://travelingwithpt.com/happy-national-dog-day/

If you would like to plan your own visit https://www.wolfcreekhabitat.org/