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Wolves aren’t native to New Jersey, USA but if you know where to look, you are guaranteed a glimpse into their behaviour.

Best seen in the winter, when their coats are thick and full, the wolves present themselves as king of the canines. To observe these animals close-up, you’ll have to follow a winding mountain road up a short distance from I-94.

Look for the camp ground and a burly man with a big bushy white beard, looking much like a wild wolf himself. You can tell he has spent countless years in intimate contact with these magnificent creatures. Dan Bacon has spent over a decade caring for and raising wolves from pups to their final rest. He considers these animals part of his family and is concerned for their protection. He asks, no demands that visitors give the wolves the respect that they deserve. Taunting, teasing, or trying to touch the wolves will result in a strong reprimand.

Yes, the wolves are close enough to touch during the provided photography tour that is available at added cost from the site. If you are an avid photographer, love animals, or are fascinated by wolf behavior then it is worth the extra money.

If you don’t choose the photography tour, the admission is only $15 and the preserve is open everyday except Mondays. The walking tours are given twice daily, the times are dependent upon the season. Call in advance for reservations.

During either tour you will see packs of four types of wolves arctic, timber and tundra wolves.

The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located at 89 Mt. Pleasant Road in Columbia, NJ

Getting There
From the East take Rt. 80 to exit 4.
From the West take Rt. 80 to exit 4C.
Take 94 North for 2 miles to Hainesburg.
Left on Mt. Pleasant Road. 1.5 miles to Camp Taylor Campground.

More information
www.lakotawolf.com 

Text and Photos by Jim DeLillo

http://jimdelillo.viewbook.com

http://jim-delillo.artistwebsites.com/

http://istockphoto.com/jimd_stock